Planning appeal submission changes coming soon
Source: gov.uk (2025-11-06)

The Planning Inspectorate is making important changes to how planning appeals are submitted, with certain appeals needing to be made via the Appeal a Planning Decision service.

Submit your appeal online – dates for your diary

From 1 December 2025 – you will no longer be able to request, and we will cease issuing, paper planning appeal forms

From 1 April 2026 – paper appeal forms will no longer be accepted by the Planning Inspectorate. Instead, planning appeals must be submitted via the Appeal a Planning Decision (https://www.gov.uk/appeal-planning-decision) service.

Only planning appeals currently in scope

The changes are only currently applicable to the following types of appeals:

Householder appeals

Section 78 (full planning) appeals

Section 20 (listed building and conservation areas) appeals

Other types of appeals are currently out of scope and submission should be made via the Appeals Casework Portal (https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/) or by post using a paper form.

Over the coming months, other appeal types will be moving to the new digital service making it easier for all users to participate in the appeal process.

Why we’re going digital-only

Moving to a fully digital service supports our commitment to delivering a faster, more consistent, and transparent process for all users. Digital submissions are processed more quickly because the system guides users through each step, reducing errors and validation delays. This means appeals can be registered and processed sooner.

The change also allows us to focus our resources on providing direct support to customers rather than handling paper correspondence, ultimately improving the service we can offer.

Digital by default, but with support available

We recognise that not everyone finds it easy to submit appeals online. If you need help completing a planning appeal digitally, several support options are available:

Telephone guidance: Our Customer Service Team advisors can provide guidance over the phone. During busy periods, they may need to arrange to call you back.

Personal support networks: Friends or family members can help you submit your appeal online.

Professional assistance: You can employ a planning agent – such as a planning consultant or architect – to complete and submit your appeal on your behalf. Agents can handle all aspects of the appeal process, including uploading documents and managing correspondence with the Planning Inspectorate.

Community resources: Local libraries typically provide computer and internet access if you don’t have these at home.

Citizens Advice: Can provide general guidance on the appeals process.

New correspondence address

Also from 1 December 2025, we will be updating our published address for customer correspondence. The new address will be available on our GOV.UK page and will help ensure all mail reaches us efficiently.

For more information and advice about submitting planning appeals, visit Appeal a Planning Decision (https://www.gov.uk/appeal-planning-decision), watch our animated walk-through of the appeals process (below), or contact our Customer Service Team.

Walk-through of the appeals process (https://youtu.be/7Iev7Fv45iE)