Planning permissions have dropped by 21% this year

The number of Brits applying for planning permissions dropped by 21% year-on-year between April and June 2020, data from bridging broker Octagon Capital has found.

The likelihood of having an application approved doesn’t seem to have been affected however, as 87% of planning permission applications in 2020 have been approved, marginally lower than the two years beforehand (88%).

Dan Kettle, commercial director at Octagon Capital, said:

“COVID-19 has impacted every aspect of our lives, but the 21% drop in the number of planning permission applications during lockdown is particularly telling when it comes to looking at how Brits are prioritising their finances during a difficult time.

“There are positives from this research for those who still want to expand, for example to build a home office to help them work from home. The approval rate for planning permission applications has remained high and at the similar level to 2019.

“The best way to ensure your application is approved is to do your research beforehand and bringing in an architect to ensure your plans are up to scratch.”

Regionally, the North East and Yorkshire & Humber both saw a 27% drop in the percentage of planning permission applications between the second quarter of 2020 and the same period of 2019, the largest in the country.

On the other hand, the South West has seen a 17% decrease, which is the lowest.

Kindly shared by Property Wire

Main article picture courtesy of Pixabay