Changes in Planning Application Costs Since April 2025

As of April 1, 2025, the UK government has implemented significant increases in planning application fees, with some fees rising by as much as 100%. These changes are designed to ensure that local planning authorities have sufficient resources to process applications efficiently.

Key Changes:

• Householder Applications: The fee for enlargements, improvements, or alterations of a single dwellinghouse has increased from £258 to £528, representing a 105% rise. For two or more dwellinghouses, the fee has gone up from £509 to £1,043, also a 105% increase.
• Prior Approvals: Fees for prior approval applications without building operations have doubled from £120 to £240. Those with building operations have seen an increase from £258 to £516. Additionally, the fee for changing the use of Class E properties to residential has risen from £125 to £250 per dwelling.
• Section 73 Applications: Fees for varying or removing conditions on existing planning permissions now vary based on project size:
  • Householder applications: £86
  • Non-major developments: £586 (a 100% increase)
  • Major developments: £2,000 (a 583% increase)
• Discharge of Conditions: The fee for applications to approve details reserved by condition has increased from £43 to £86 for householders and from £145 to £298 for other developments, both representing a 100% increase.
• Biodiversity Gain Plan: The fee for submitting a Biodiversity Gain Plan has risen from £145 to £298, a 106% increase.
• Major Application Fees: Fees for large-scale applications have also seen significant hikes. For example, outline applications for buildings exceeding 3,750 square meters now have a fee of £31,385, up from £30,680. Agricultural building applications between 1,000 and 4,215 square meters have increased to £5,077 from £624.

These substantial fee increases are a cause for concern, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Industry experts warn that the heightened costs could push smaller builders out of the market, potentially jeopardizing the government’s goal of building 1.5 million homes by 2029.

How Purifico Property Services Can Assist:

At Purifico Property Services, we recognize the challenges these fee increases pose to investors and developers. Our consultancy services are tailored to help you navigate these changes effectively:

• Strategic Planning: We assist in adjusting project budgets and timelines to accommodate the new fee structures, ensuring financial feasibility and project continuity.
• Application Optimization: Our team provides guidance on preparing robust applications that meet the latest requirements, minimizing the risk of delays or additional costs.
• Regulatory Navigation: We stay abreast of legislative changes, offering informed advice to help you remain compliant and make strategic decisions.

Partnering with Purifico Property Services ensures that your projects adapt seamlessly to the evolving planning landscape, maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness despite the increased fees.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your development goals in this changing environment.