Colchester is faster than most councils at deciding householder applications, ranking #49 out of 282. Only 27% of applications have the time limit extended, well below the 40% national average - the council usually decides on time. Colchester is also one of the strictest councils - it refuses more householder applications than almost any other, with only 82% approved vs 90% nationally.

One of the strictest councils

only 82% approved vs 90% nationally

These figures are council-wide context, not a prediction for this application. View full council performance

Colchester decision performance

Based on MHCLG data, 2025

80%

Overall approval rate

Below avg (87%) #249 of 282

82%

Householder approved

Below avg (90%) #251 of 282

78%

Decided in 8 weeks

Above avg (64%) #49 of 282

27%

Extended time limit

Below avg (40%) #37 of 282

68%

Minor dwellings approved

69 decided (1-9 homes)

67%

Major dwellings approved

12 decided (10+ homes)

70%

Change of use approved

84 decided

1,059

Total decisions

216 refused in 2025