In 2023, the highest number of councils refusing at least one in two submissions for major new housing were found to be in London, the South East, and East of England, new data from Search Acumen has revealed.
Analysing all planning permissions refused for major residential developments of more than 10 units in 2023, Search Acumen found that Mole Valley was the top UK Local Planning Authority who refused the most decisions, recording a 77% refusal rate.
12 of the top 15 Local Planning Authorities who refused at least 50% of major housing developments were in London, the South East, or the East of England, meaning housebuilders in these areas had the lowest chance of obtaining a successful planning application in the country.
Andrew Lloyd, director of Search Acumen, said: “Where the housing pressure is the greatest is where opposition to new housing is the highest.
“This research shows that overwhelmingly the wealthier parts of the country, in particular the commuter belts in the South East, is where the greatest amount of opposition comes from to new housing.
“With more land being used for development, voters and politicians alike are becoming more protective of land due to its scarcity.”
He continued: “Councils where no one party is in control can mean planning applications can take a more political lens when considered for approval, ultimately finding consent harder to achieve.
“Local elections on May 2nd for these areas up and down the UK will be key to removing political stalemates through majority wins, creating a better chance for local authorities to be able to commit to new housing projects and the associated town investment that often goes hand in hand.”
