How to Write a Strong Planning Objection Letter (Free Template Included)
If a planning application has been submitted in your area and you feel it will negatively affect you, your neighbours, or the wider community, you have the right to submit a planning objection letter. Knowing how to structure your response and what to include can make a big difference in whether your concerns are taken seriously.
If you are concerned about a planning application near your home, you do not have to handle the process alone. Objection Experts can review the application and help you understand your options. We offer a free initial consultation where you can talk through your concerns and get advice on whether you have valid grounds for objection, with an up-front fixed fee quote for the preparation of a comprehensive, well-argued planning objection letter tailored to your case. This can give you confidence that your objection will be presented clearly and professionally, increasing its impact with the planning authority.
What is a Planning Objection Letter?
A planning objection letter is a written response submitted to your local planning authority (LPA) that sets out valid reasons why a proposed development should not be granted planning permission. These objections are taken into account by planning officers when assessing the application, and sometimes by councillors at committee stage.
What Can You Object To?
When writing your planning objection letter, it’s important to focus on material planning considerations. These are the issues that the planning authority is legally required to consider. Examples include:
Overlooking and loss of privacy
Loss of daylight or overshadowing
Impact on traffic, parking, and road safety
Overdevelopment and density
Design, scale, and appearance of the proposal
Impact on local character and heritage assets
Noise, disturbance, or pollution
Ecology and impact on trees/green spaces
It’s equally important to avoid issues that are not planning considerations, such as property values, private disputes, or loss of views.
Tips for Writing an Effective Planning Objection
Be clear and concise – planning officers review many objections.
Stick to planning grounds – focus on the material considerations.
Refer to local and national policies – check your Local Plan, Neighbourhood Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework.
Use evidence – photos, measurements, or references to policy carry more weight.
Submit on time – usually within 21 days of the application being validated.
Template Planning Objection Letter
Below is a template you can copy and adapt for your own planning objection. Remember to alter this to be specific to the application your are looking to object to - adding unnecessary reasons is likely to harm your objection.
Dear Sir/Madam,
Re: Planning Application [Application Reference Number], [Site Address]
I am writing to object to the above planning application.
My objection is based on the following material planning considerations:
Design
The proposal is out of character with the surrounding area in terms of scale, bulk, and design. It represents overdevelopment of the site, contrary to local planning policies [insert policy reference if known].Overbearingness
The proposed development, due to its height, bulk and proximity to neighbouring properties, would have an overbearing impact on the outlook from my home and garden. The scale and massing would create an oppressive sense of enclosure, which would significantly harm residential amenity and reduce the enjoyment of private outdoor space. This is contrary to the principles of good design set out in the National Planning Policy Framework and relevant local plan policies that seek to protect the living conditions of existing residents.
Overlooking and Loss of Privacy
The proposed development would result in direct overlooking into my property and garden, causing an unacceptable loss of privacy.Loss of Daylight and Overshadowing
The scale and height of the proposed building would overshadow neighbouring properties, significantly reducing natural light.Highway Safety and Parking
The development would increase traffic on [insert road name], which is already heavily congested. There is inadequate on-site parking, which will lead to overspill parking on surrounding streets, worsening safety for pedestrians and road users.
For these reasons, I respectfully request that planning permission be refused.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
Final Thoughts
Submitting a well-structured planning objection letter can help ensure that your concerns are properly considered. Remember to focus on valid planning grounds, provide evidence where possible, and always meet the consultation deadline.
If you feel unsure about drafting your own objection, you don’t have to go through the process on your own. Objetion Experts offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case, followed by an up-front fixed fee quote to prepare a tailored objection letter on your behalf, with full reference to Local and National Planning Policy. This ensures your concerns are set out in the strongest possible way and gives you peace of mind that your planning objection letter will carry maximum weight with the local planning authority.
