Bolton is slower than most councils at deciding householder applications, ranking #241 out of 292. Bolton is also one of the strictest councils - it refuses more householder applications than almost any other, with only 83% approved vs 90% nationally.

One of the strictest councils

only 83% approved vs 90% nationally

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

Bolton decision performance

Based on MHCLG data, 2025

81%

Overall approval rate

Below avg (87%) #246 of 292

83%

Householder approved

Below avg (90%) #253 of 292

48%

Decided in 8 weeks

Below avg (64%) #241 of 292

44%

Extended time limit

Above avg (40%) #172 of 292

68%

Minor dwellings approved

63 decided (1-9 homes)

82%

Major dwellings approved

11 decided (10+ homes)

64%

Change of use approved

94 decided

981

Total decisions

191 refused in 2025