The Planning Inspectorate has launched new guidance. The new procedures apply to the majority of planning appeals in England, including appeals against refusals, conditions and non-determination, and replace the previous procedural guide for newer applications.

Key Change: “Submit Once, Submit Right”
One of the most significant changes introduced by the new guidance is a stronger emphasis on the principle of “submit once, submit right”.

Under the revised process:
• Appeals will be decided primarily on the information submitted with the original planning application
• In most cases, new or additional evidence will not be accepted at appeal stage, unless it falls within tightly defined exceptions
• Applicants are expected to resolve technical matters and submit full supporting evidence before an application is determined by the local planning authority.

This marks a clear shift away from the historic practice of using appeals to address gaps in applications or refine schemes.

Greater Use of Written Representations
The revised procedures are designed to increase the proportion of appeals dealt with through the written representations procedure, which is the simplest and quickest appeal route.