London Planning Objections

Planning Support for Objecting to Planning Applications Across London

London has one of the most complex planning systems in the UK. With 32 boroughs, the City of London, and strategic planning policies set by the Mayor of London, navigating the process can feel overwhelming.

Whether you are a homeowner, neighbour, residents’ association or local business, Cedar Planning helps you prepare strong, policy-based planning objections that London councils must take seriously.

Specialist Support for London Planning Objections

A well-prepared planning objection can make a genuine difference to the outcome of a planning application. At Cedar Planning, we analyse the proposal, identify relevant planning issues, and draft clear representations that highlight where a scheme conflicts with local and strategic planning policy.

Our team understands London borough Local Plans, the London Plan, neighbourhood character policies, conservation constraints, and the decision-making priorities of planning officers and committees.

Valid Reasons to Object to a Planning Application in London

You may wish to object to a planning application in London if a proposal would negatively affect your home, business, or local community. Common examples include:

• Extensions that overshadow your garden or main rooms

• New windows, terraces or balconies that overlook your home

• Additional storeys that reduce sunlight and daylight

• Developments that appear too tall, bulky or out of character

• HMOs, commercial uses or late-night premises causing noise or disturbance

• Increased traffic, parking pressure or unsafe access arrangements

• Demolition or alterations affecting conservation areas or heritage assets

Unfortunately, not all concerns carry weight in planning decisions. Cedar Planning focuses only on material planning considerations, strengthening the impact of your objection.

What Cedar Planning Can Do for Your Objection

We tailor our service to meet your needs, which may include:

1. Initial Case Review

   • Assessment of planning drawings, supporting documents and planning history to identify relevant issues.

2. Advice on Valid Grounds for Objection

   • Clear explanation of which concerns are material in planning terms. This could be overshadowing, loss of employment land or Green Belt matters.

3. Professional Written Objection

   • A structured, persuasive objection letter with references to applicable London borough policies and the London Plan.

4. Support for Neighbour and Community Groups

   • Assisting residents’ associations and campaign groups to coordinate consistent, policy-led objections.

5. Planning Committee Support

   • Preparation of committee speech notes or support for attendees where an application is decided by councillors.

Our Process

• Send us the planning reference and a short summary of your concerns.

• We review the application documents and identify planning issues.

• We advise you on your options and the strength of potential objections.

• We prepare your objection, referencing relevant London planning policies.

• We support you through the process, including monitoring amendments or committee involvement if required.

Why Use Cedar Planning for Your London Objection?

• Policy-led arguments written in professional planning language

• Experience across all London boroughs and familiarity with local design guidance

• Clear, structured representations that officers and councillors can refer to

• Time saved navigating drawings, statements and technical documents

• A constructive, outcome-focused approach aimed at influencing amendments or refusals

London Boroughs We Cover

Cedar Planning prepares objections for all London councils, including:

Barking & Dagenham, Barnet, Bexley, Brent, Bromley, Camden, Croydon, Ealing, Enfield, Greenwich, Hackney, Hammersmith & Fulham, Haringey, Harrow, Havering, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Islington, Kensington & Chelsea, Kingston, Lambeth, Lewisham, Merton, Newham, Redbridge, Richmond, Southwark, Sutton, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, Wandsworth, Westminster and the City of London.

We also advise on applications referable to the Mayor of London and the Greater London Authority (GLA).

London Planning Objections Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Long do I have to object to a planning application in London?

Most London councils allow around 21 days to submit comments on a planning application. Late comments may sometimes be accepted, but early submission is strongly recommended. If you are objecting to a neighbours Prior Approval application it is vitally important that you object on time, otherwise the Council are unable to take on board your concerns, or even the impact on you.

What are valid reasons for objecting to a planning application in London?

Valid reasons include loss of light, loss of privacy, overbearing impact, design and character issues, harm to heritage assets, noise and disturbance, traffic and parking concerns, and impacts on trees or biodiversity. We recommend that the reasons for objecting are specific to the application in question, and can advise accordingly.

Can anyone object to a planning application?

Yes. Anyone can comment on a planning application, but only material planning considerations will influence the decision. With this in mind, we always recommend producing focused planning objections.

Will my objection be published?

Most London councils publish representations online, including your name and address. Personal contact details, or other sensitive information, is typically removed.

Get a Free Quote

Fill out the form below to receive a no obligation quote or general advice for your London Planning Objection

Or alternatively, send us an email at info@cedarplanning.co.uk with the relevant information.