Planning & Appeal Specialists

Contact us on: 0208 914 7900

Testimonials

 Nothing can prepare you for the shock and stress of hearing your build is incorrect and enforcement action might be necessary. Therefore, to have someone like LSE Planning on your side, guiding you through the appeal process, is invaluable. You only have one opportunity to get an appeal right, so it is essential to have an expert who can prepare the appeal methodically, using all relevant information, with a knowledge of the appropriate laws, and without any emotional attachment. We will be forever grateful for the submission of our successful appeal. 

Ms Walsh

 The appeal process was explained to me in detail during my initial telephone conversation and all my questions were answered fully. After considering several companies, I decided to go with LSE Planning and I am very glad that I did. The appeal statement was well written, included a substantial amount of supporting evidence, addressed all of the objections raised by my local authority and was submitted within a week of being commissioned. I was then kept updated throughout the process. I am thrilled to find out that my appeal has been allowed. 

Ms Makokha: Waltham Forest

 Unlike other firms I'd spoken to LSE were very patient, answering every one of my questions without trying to push me to agree on a deal. I can't thank them enough for their work and now my extension has been granted permission via appeal. I'd recommend their service to anyone based on my amazing experience. 

Mr Zhen: Greenwich

 LSE Planning provided a reliable and thorough service in assisting us with an appeal for a project in London. Their work was well researched, presented and formed the key element of our successful appeal documents. A good, thorough, professional service. 

Mr O’Brien: Lambeth

 l would like to thank you for making this possible and would like to recommend your services highly to all new customers, you did well Thanks! 

Mrs Cakir: Enfield

 Big thanks to the team at LSE, managing the process and winning our planning appeal! Would highly recommend for any planning appeals processes, great thorough service and communication throughout. 

Ms Dartendorf: Westminster

 Thank you for helping us secure a successful planning appeal. As a reference, you acted very quickly once we agreed your appointment, and submitted the written appeal within a week. You kept us informed throughout the process. In your written appeal, you researched the road and collated the relevant details to substantiate the appeal very well. Thank you for your support. 

Mr Lee: Wandsworth

 London and South East Planning wrote an excellent report to support my appeal. It was thorough and made the points clearly and concisely. The consultant was always helpful and clear in his advice and most importantly, the appeal was successful. Well done LSE Planning. 

Mr Salmon: Ealing

 Thank you very much, this is fantastic news. Both my wife and I would like to thank you for preparing the appeal statement and managing the process for us. We would not hesitate to recommend your services to others. 

Mr Sagoo: Hillingdon

 You’ve been fantastic throughout, and both my Mum and I hugely appreciate your hard work and expertise to get the decision overturned. 

Mr Hoskins: Broadstairs

 This is amazing news, thank you so much for helping us through the process. You collated all the evidence in a structured fashion, and presented it to the Planning Inspectorate appeal process. I would be happy to recommend your services, it has taken the strain out of a difficult year for everyone, you’ve made our year. 

Mr & Mrs Forbes: Enfield
  

Services

Planning Appeals

Planning Applications

Statements & Reports

Advice & Information

Case Studies

Retrospective

'L' Shape Loft Conversion

2 Storey Side & Rear Extension

Roof Terrace

Grade II Listed Building

Commercial

Variation of Condition

Vehicle Crossover

Conversion

uPVC Double Glazed Windows (Conservation Area)

Mansard Roof Extension (Conservation Area)

Lawful Development Certificate for Existing Use

New Build

Rear Infill

Outbuilding

About

At London & South East Planning Ltd, we specialise in navigating the complexities of the planning process, with a particular focus on planning appeals. If you have been refused planning permission, our team of experienced consultants is here to provide expert support to challenge that decision effectively. We manage the entire appeals process on your behalf, using our in-depth knowledge of planning law and our unique insights into council decision-making to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Our appeal services are rooted in real-world expertise. Many of our team members have worked within local authority planning departments, giving us a clear understanding of the thought processes and policies that underpin planning refusals. This experience allows us to identify weak justifications for rejections and present strong, evidence-based arguments that expose inconsistencies or errors in the decision-making process. Our high success rate in planning appeals reflects the confidence our clients place in our ability to deliver results.

While planning appeals remain a cornerstone of our work, London & South East Planning Ltd has grown to offer a comprehensive range of planning application services. Whether you are at the start of a new project or seeking to adapt an existing property, we provide tailored advice and support to help you navigate the planning system from the outset. We prepare and submit applications that align with national, regional, and local planning policies, ensuring your proposal is presented in the best possible light to planning officers.

We handle applications for residential, commercial, and industrial developments, with particular expertise in specialist areas such as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), change of use applications, and developments requiring lawful development certificates. Our services also extend to applications for properties in conservation areas and projects involving prior approval, where additional scrutiny may apply. By proactively engaging with local authorities and addressing potential challenges early, we aim to reduce delays and improve the likelihood of approval.

At London & South East Planning Ltd, we understand that navigating the planning process can often feel daunting, whether you are submitting an application or challenging a refusal. That’s why we work closely with our clients to provide clear, actionable advice at every step. From initial planning statements and appraisals to detailed appeals and objections, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your development goals.

Our diverse casework spans residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, reflecting the trust placed in us by a wide range of clients. Whether you are a homeowner, a developer, or a business owner, we bring the same commitment to excellence and attention to detail to every project. With a proven track record of success and a client-focused approach, we aim to make the planning process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

If you are looking for professional planning support, whether for a new application or to appeal a decision, London & South East Planning Ltd is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist with your planning needs.


F.A.Q

Initial response

If the Local Planning Authority (LPA) refuses your planning application or imposes conditions, it will give you written reasons for its decisions. If you are unsure or confused about the outcome, you should talk to a member of the LPA team.

Ask them if changing your plans might make a difference. If your application has been refused, you may be able to submit another application with modified plans free of charge within 12 months of the decision on your first application.

Consider making an appeal

Alternatively, if you think the authority’s decision is unreasonable, you may wish to consider appealing to the Secretary of State. Appeals are submitted to the Planning Inspectorate. However, to make an appeal, you must correctly prepare all the documents, evidence and materials before submitting it. This can take time and it is easy for someone not familiar with planning law to accidentally omit essential information.

When should I lodge the appeal?

For householder and minor commercial appeals, appeals must be lodged within 12 weeks of formal notice of the outcome of your application. Appeals for other types of property must be made within 6 months of the notice of the outcome from the LPA.

Appeals should be the last resort and can take several months to decide.

Consult an expert

The combination of technical and legal knowledge that’s required for a planning appeal means that it is usually best to seek advice from a planning appeals expert. Doing so will almost always be more efficient and cost effective than doing it yourself. Employing a professional planning consultant will also mean your chances of success are much higher than doing it alone.
Residential properties

Where the appeal relates to an application for householder planning consent and is to be determined via the fast-track Householder Appeals Service, there are only 12 weeks to make the appeal.

In some planning permission refusal cases, and where the fast-track service is not used, appeals must be submitted within six months of the date on the decision notice. It is important to establish which deadline applies to you and it is usually best to get professional advice so you can be certain.

Flats, subdivisions, conversions, change of use and new builds

If your development relates to any of the above the procedure will follow the s78 planning appeals process. This means you will have 6 months from the date the application was refused to lodge an appeal. If this deadline is missed the only route forward would  be to submit a new application to the LPA.

Commercial properties

For commercial properties, there are different deadlines for lodging an appeal with the Commercial Appeals Service.

  • appeals related to shop fronts must be submitted within 12 weeks
  • advertisement consent appeals must be submitted within 8 weeks
Appeals when there is an Enforcement Notice

It is crucial to remember that if an appeal on an application for planning permission is linked to enforcement action, there are only 28 days to make the appeal.
If the Local Planning Authority (LPA) refuses your planning application, you should try to come to an agreement with the LPA team. If you can’t reach to an agreement, you can lodge a planning appeal.

The grounds for a planning appeal

You can appeal against a planning decision if the local planning authority (LPA) has done the following:

  • refused you planning permission for reasons that you think go against the LPA’s development plan or planning policy (you can usually find these on their website)
  • granted you planning permission with conditions you object to - you’ll need to explain why you think they’re unnecessary, unenforceable, vague, unreasonable or irrelevant
  • not given you a decision on your application and 8 weeks have passed since the date they told you they’d received it (or a different deadline you agreed with them has passed).
These will often seem like matters of plain fact or common sense. However, in the first two instances you’ll need to understand the detailed reasons for refusal before establishing whether you can apply and on what basis.  To do this you’ll need to fully understand local and national planning policy and what aspects of the LPA’s decision can be most effectively challenged. It is possible to do this yourself but you will need to do so within the time limits set for appeal. Usually it will be quicker and more cost effective, and you will have a greater likelihood of success, if you engage a planning professional.

If your planning application has been refused by the LPA, don’t panic or delay. Contact our expert application appeals team today for further information.
Once the Planning Inspectorate receives a planning appeal, they will review the appeal as efficiently as possible in line with the performance targets.

The time required for an individual appeal will depend partly on the workload in the appeals system, and partly on the complexity of the case. However, you can use these guidelines as an estimate.

Householder Appeals - 80% within 14 - 18 weeks
Full Planning Appeals - 80% within 22 - 30 weeks

Please remember all parties must provide the necessary evidence and meet the procedural deadlines to achieve these timescales. This is where expert planning appeal consultants can help you prepare the evidence on time.
It depends on the type of appeal. Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) have a low rate of success, and full planning applications e.g. building a new dwelling can be moderately successful. However, householder applications are by far the most successful. This category covers things like loft conversions, extensions, window replacements, vehicle crossovers etc.
Yes!

An appeal is independent of any subsequent planning application. Some of our clients decide to pursue both options, so it is not unusual to lodge an appeal and resubmit to planning at the same time. There is no conflict in taking this approach.
Win
Should your case be overturned the Inspector will 'allow' the appeal and thus grant permission. Some decisions will come with conditions which are typically standard requirements e.g. to commence construction within 3 years or to build in accordance with the correct plans etc. The Planning Inspectorate's decision is independent of the council and will override the initial refusal. In almost all cases you would not need to take any further action at this point other than proceeding with the project in accordance with the required regulation.

Lose
If an appeal is unsuccessful the Planning Inspectorate will 'dismiss' the case. However, they will issue a report which will detail their findings, rarely is the Inspector in full agreement with the council. So this often provides a route to redesign the scheme in light of the criticism received at appeal. This can enable you to push for a greater level of development at planning level than you would otherwise hope to achieve.
If you have been refused for a retrospective planning application. That is to say you have already built the development e.g. a rear extension, you still have the right to appeal the council's refusal.

However, if you fail to communicate your intention to appeal a decision there is a high chance an enforcement notice will be issued. This legal document will order you to comply with a set of demands within a fixed period. If you receive an enforcement notice it will dramatically shorten the period of time you have to appeal to as little as 28 days.

For this reason it is preferable in most cases to submit a planning appeal as soon as possible. Taking such measures will normally see the council halt enforcement action whilst the appeal is being determined. LSE Planning will liaise with the council on your behalf to ensure that their enforcement team are aware an appeal is underway.

Should the case be overturned at appeal thus granting full permission for the development, there should be no further action required. However, if the appeal is unsuccessful then you will most likely need to engage with the council's enforcement team, which may result in remedial building works to restore the breach of planning.
Enforcement Notices are legal documents requiring specific actions to remedy a breach of planning control. They are issued where development has taken place without the correct planning permission or outside the conditions of planning permission.

This notice is just one of many actions that authorities can take depending on the circumstances and status of your planning project.

If you have received an Enforcement Notice, you must comply with it unless you can appeal against it in time. If you do not comply and do not appeal, there may be significant consequences. In some cases already completed buildings will have to be taken down.

Don’t worry! Contact our expert planning consultants for advice on any proposed development, or potential or current enforcement action.
Do not ignore an Enforcement Notice.

It is an offence not to comply with an Enforcement Notice by the deadline given unless there is an outstanding appeal. A person guilty of this offence is liable on conviction to an unlimited fine and, rarely but potentially, imprisonment. These penalties are in addition to the practical planning consequences of not responding.
If you do not submit an appeal before the enforcement notice takes effect, you will need to comply with the requirements of the enforcement notice. If you fail to carry out the works required, the Local Planning Authority could prosecute you.

If a Local Planning Authority (LPA) contacts you about an alleged planning control breach, you should address this before formal enforcement action is taken. The most important thing to remember is not to panic and to seek expert advice as soon as possible.
What is a conservation area?

A conservation is an area of notable environmental or historical interest or importance which is protected by law against undesirable changes.

Who decides the conservation areas?

Usually it is the local authority which is responsible for determining which areas should be conservation areas. The decision must be based on a definite architectural quality or point of historical interest to merit designation.

However, Historic England can designate conservation areas in London, following consultation with the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. The Secretary of State can also designate a conservation area in England in exceptional circumstances – usually where the area is of more than local interest.

Types of conservation areas

There are many different types, including:

  • the centres of our historic villages, towns and cities
  • fishing and mining villages
  • 18th, 19th and 20th-century suburbs
  • model housing estates, including late 20th-century housing projects
  • country houses set in their historic parks
  • historic transport links and their environs, such as stretches of canal and railway and airfields
  • industrial heritage sites
What is a Conservation Area?

A Conservation Area is one which has a specific architectural quality or historic interest that merits protection. A conservation area is often composed of numerous streets and applies to all property which falls into the zone.

What is a Listed Building?

Listed Building status is applied to individual properties or structures which have been placed on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. Being a listed building means that there are limitations as to what type of work can be done to it. Typically these are about the materials used in renovation and about maintaining its original character and appearance.

Different types of listed building status

There are three types of listed status for buildings in England and Wales:

  • Grade I: buildings of exceptional interest.
  • Grade II*: particularly important buildings of more than special interest.
  • Grade II: buildings that are of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve them.
How does a building get listed status?
Listing marks and celebrates a building’s special architectural and historic interest, and protects it for current and future generations to enjoy. A building may be listed due to its age, its rarity, its aesthetic appeal or because it represents just a select few of its kind that are still standing. Listing is under the authority of Historic England, with enforcement of the status being delegated to local authorities.

Contact

  • London and South East Planning Ltd, International House, 36-38 Cornhill, London, EC3V 3NG
  • Company number 12665510 VAT number 403 2333 52