How Long Does Planning Take?

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is: 'How long does planning take?'  And, unfortunately, it’s a difficult one to answer with certainty. The timeframe can vary considerably depending on a number of factors.

What Affects Planning Timescales?

Several elements influence the speed at which a planning application is processed, including:

• The Local Authority's Workload – Each council has different levels of demand, which means processing times can fluctuate. Some authorities may have a backlog of applications, leading to longer waiting times. Somerset currently have long processing times due to staff shortage, however this varies from county to county.

• The Accuracy of the Application – A well-prepared and accurate submission will move through the system more smoothly. Any missing information or errors can result in delays as planners request further details.

• Additional Studies and Reports – Depending on the nature of your project, you may need supporting documentation such as flood risk assessments, ecological surveys, or heritage impact statements. These can take time to prepare and review, adding to the overall timeline.

  
  

General Timeframes

For a standard householder application, the official target determination period is eight weeks. However, in practice, this can extend beyond the guideline due to the factors mentioned above. Somerset are currently working around 12 -20 weeks. More complex minor or major developments may take longer. If an application requires an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), this timeframe can stretch significantly.

What Do we do to Speed Things Up?

While we can’t control the planners' workload, we can help streamline the process by:

• Ensuring your application is complete and accurate before submission.

• Seeking pre-application advice from your local authority. This is now being advised for more complex planning applications.

• Liaising closely with the planning department to answer queries quickly

• Preparing any required surveys in advance.

At Tekkwise, we ensure that our applications are complete and accurate to ensure that they are validated quickly, helping to avoid unnecessary delays. We also have an outstanding record of achieving planning permissions, giving our clients confidence in a smooth and successful outcome.

We have an outstanding record of achieving planning permission for our clients.

Conclusion

While we’d love to give a definitive answer on how long planning takes, the reality is that it varies from case to case. If you're considering a project and need advice on planning, feel free to get in touch—we're here to help guide you through the process as smoothly as possible!