Planning Appeals

Turning Refusals into Approvals

When a local planning authority refuses permission, or fails to determine an application within the statutory period, an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate provides an independent review. DMC Planning operates across all appeal procedures — written representations for straightforward cases, informal hearings for policy-heavy disputes, and full public inquiries for major or contentious developments.

Our success in appeals stems from the quality of preparation we invest before submission. We analyse every reason for refusal against planning policy, identify where the officer's reasoning is flawed or where policy supports the scheme, and construct a rebuttal that is both technically rigorous and compelling. We also advise honestly when a scheme has little realistic prospect of success, preserving client resources for viable strategies.

What We Do

• Refusal Analysis & Strategy Advice

  We examine every reason for refusal in detail, assessing it against the relevant planning policy framework to establish the strength of the appeal case and advise on the most appropriate procedure.

• Written Representations

  We prepare comprehensive written appeals for cases where the inspector can reach a sound decision on the basis of written evidence, site visits, and the parties' written statements.

• Informal Hearings

  For cases with complex policy issues, we represent clients at informal hearings before the Planning Inspectorate, providing structured oral advocacy in a round-table format.

• Public Inquiries

  We manage and present evidence at public inquiries for major or particularly contentious developments, working alongside specialist barristers where the complexity of the case demands it.

• Enforcement Notice Appeals

  We prepare and present appeals against enforcement notices, including challenges based on the grounds set out in section 174 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, including immunity arguments and grounds of lawfulness.

• Lawful Development Certificate Applications

  Where a scheme falls within Permitted Development or immunity has been established through the passage of time, we prepare applications for Certificates of Lawful Development to confirm the position formally.

How We Approach Appeals

The appeal process begins with a thorough analysis of the decision notice and all material considerations. We prepare grounds of appeal that directly challenge each reason for refusal, supported by policy references, case law where applicable, and expert evidence including daylight/sunlight assessments or heritage reports if required. Throughout the procedure, we maintain clear communication with the Planning Inspectorate and the local authority.

Once an appeal is lodged, we coordinate the preparation of the statement of case, any additional technical evidence, and the response to the local authority's case. We monitor Inspectorate correspondence closely and respond to any requests for further information promptly, ensuring the appeal progresses as efficiently as possible towards a positive determination.

Frequently Asked Questions