Choosing the right procedure

In 2005/06, 87% of planning appeals were decided through the Written Representations procedure, 9% were decided following a hearing, and 4% after an inquiry.

All procedures are equal in terms of their quality. Inspectors give equal attention to every appeal they handle, regardless of the procedure. All Inspectors are experienced professionals who are carefully recruited and trained. The result of your appeal will depend on its planning merits.

Written Representations are often the easiest approach, because they are usually the quickest and cheapest procedure. The written procedure can also be preferable because it means you only have to put your argument in writing, without having to speak at a hearing or inquiry. At a hearing or inquiry you can put your case to the Inspector in person, but, most ‘householder developments’ (e.g. home extensions) can be dealt with very well using the Written Representations method.

Use the flow chart to show which procedure is the most appropriate for your case, or read the list of indicative criteria which show whether an appeal is suitable to be decided following the written method, a hearing, or an inquiry.

The Case Officer for your appeal will write to you if they think the procedure you have chosen is not the most appropriate one for your case, and unless you or the other party insist otherwise, then the appeal will progress through the procedure recommended by the Case Officer.

For more information about choosing the right procedure, please follow the link Choosing the right procedure