What does a planning permission appeal allow an applicant to do?

A planning permission appeal is a formal process that allows applicants to contest a decision made by a local council regarding their application for planning permission. When an application is refused, the applicant has the right to appeal that refusal to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. This appeal must be lodged within a specific timeframe, generally six months from the date of the council's decision.

This process is essential because it provides a mechanism for applicants to seek recourse if they believe the decision was unjust or not adequately justified. It also ensures that there is a higher authority reviewing the decision, which can help in achieving fairness and consistency in planning decisions across different councils.