Hi, has anyone had any recent experience with getting a planning application through Lewisham Council?

I made an application for a small rear extension at the beginning of last December, and nearly 7 months we are still pending an initial decision one way or another. We're actually a few days shy of being 5 months past the councils own Target Decision Date.

I was just wondering if these timelines seem consistent with other peoples experiences?

Have you discussed this with the case officer? Have they indicated why no decision has been made?

Yes, and there seem to be no specific reason other that it just seems to be moving really slowly through the process. Mind you, my first two case officers have subsequently left the council - say maybe the next one will have something different to say.

Any objections?

Nope. The last case officer stated that he was minded to recommend approval - but that was over a month ago.

John

Please email me the details at cllr_paul.upex@lewisham.gov.uk and I will see what I can do to help

thanks

Paul

This post was last modified: 24-06-2015 03:39 PM by Cllr Paul Upex.

You can appeal on the grounds of non determination but it would be best to try and jolly them along if you can. I don't find Lewisham particularly poor especially in comparison to Tower Hamlets.

Are you sure you need planning?

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permiss...xtensions/

Single story extensions of a certain size fall under permitted development. Generally, planning can be very inconsistent. I've had all sorts of problems with planners.

The issue with most councils at present is that their planning departments are woefully understaffed. There are a few brilliant officers in Lewisham planning who hopefully are thill there, and some pretty rubbish ones who hopefully still aren't.

Good luck.

The planning dept seem to be very understaffed. I made an appointment to see them when we were looking at building, met the planner and found that following a face to face meeting we were able to do things much easier.