Appeals Against the Council's Decision 
What happens if planning permission is refused?
If your planning permission is refused, the applicant or their appointed agent will be sent a copy of the council's decision with full reasons for the decisions. If permission is granted it may be subject to certain conditions. Copies of the decision will also be sent to those who made written comments on the application.
Planning appeals
Only the applicant has a right to appeal against refusals and conditions imposed on a grant of permission within six months of the decision date.
Appeals are decided by  The Planning Inspectorate on behalf of the Secretary of State using one of three methods.
- Written representations. The inspector considers the written comments submitted by the appellant, the council and interested parties who commented on the planning application.
- A hearing. The inspector will hear the case put forward by the person who has appealed, the council and interested parties. Find out more about hearings (44kb).
- Public inquiry. The inspector will also hear the case put forward by the person who has appealed, the council and interested parties. Find out more about public inquires (55kb).
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The public inquiry method is a much more formal process involving the giving of evidence by witnesses who are cross examined and where the main parties are generally legally represented. This method is normally used in the more complex cases or where there is a high level of public interest.
In the case of an appeal, if you made written comments on the application these will be sent to the Planning Inspectorate. You will also be notified of the appeal so that you can make further comments
Contact us
Planning enquiries
Tel: 020 7525 5403
Fax: 020 7525 5432
planning.enquiries@southwark.gov.uk
Planning development control
Southwark Council
Chiltern
Portland Street
London SE17 2ES
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm, Monday and Friday |
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