Half of local planning authorities fail to discharge planning conditions within timeframe, analysis found
Summary
New research from the Home Builders Federation and Paragon Bank Development Finance suggests that just over half of planning condition applications are determined within the statutory eight-week period, with performance worsening year on year. The analysis also points to wide variation between local planning authorities and ongoing staffing shortages in planning departments across England and Wales.
Why it matters
Delays in discharging planning conditions can hold up development starts and slow the delivery of new homes, which affects pipeline timing and site progress. Surveyors involved in development, valuation or due diligence should note the operational risk created by inconsistent local planning performance.
Key points
- 50.8% of planning condition applications were determined within the statutory eight-week timeframe.
- Median determination time in 2025/26 was 70 days, around 25% above the target.
- Performance varies significantly between local authorities, from over 75% on time to 18%.
- HBF says 90% of council planning departments are operating below full capacity.
- An estimated 2,660 additional planning officers are needed across England and Wales.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
