Development Intent
InvestigationsThe Objection Effect
Planning AtlasInvestigationsThe Objection Effect
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Does objecting actually work?

For discretionary applications with recorded consultation data, objection counts are associated with different approval rates. This page measures that relationship without assuming the objections caused the outcome.

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Observed approval rate: All discretionary
82.8%
no objections
45.1%
50+ objections

The 50+ objection cohort's observed approval rate is 37.7 percentage points lower than the no-objection cohort. This is an association, not proof that objections caused the difference. 19.3% of all discretionary applications have at least one recorded objection in London.

Approval rate by objection count
100%50%0%No objections82.8%1-566.7%6-2047.7%21-5042.6%50+45.1%
Solid sample
Small sample (shown muted)

Five objection bands show approval rates across 180,640 all discretionary applications. Bars marked with sample size (n) represent smaller decision cohorts.

Approved despite objections

Real applications approved even with extreme objection counts.

22/02489/FUL
2,518 objections
Lambeth
Demolition of 99-101 Waterloo Road, 103-107 Waterloo Road, 124 and 126 Cornwall
203275FULR3
2,395 objections
Ealing
Demolition of existing buildings and phased redevelopment of the site to provide
20/3564/OUT
2,210 objections
Barnet
APPLICATION CALLED IN BY SECRETARY OF STATE - ITEM RELATES TO AN UPDATE ON THE A
23/00178/FULL1
1,237 objections
Bromley
Phased development including demolition of existing buildings and erection of fo
233551FUL
1,094 objections
Ealing
Demolition of existing buildings and erection of a mixed-use development compris
Coverage & scope

Discretionary, consultable applications only: full planning, householder, outline, listed building consent, reserved matters. Excludes permitted development, prior approval, lawful-development certificates, condition discharge and tree works (automatic or non-consultable).

Current view: All discretionary180,640 applications tracked. 19.3% received at least one objection.

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