London Borough of Wandsworth (26 012 835)
Category : Planning > Planning applications
Decision : Closed after initial enquiries
Decision date : 09 Aug 2026
The Ombudsman's final decision:
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about a planning application. This is because there is a right of appeal to the Planning Inspector.
The complaint
- X complains that the Council has delayed considering their planning application.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
- The law says we cannot normally investigate a complaint when someone can appeal to a government minister. However, we may decide to investigate if we consider it would be unreasonable to expect the person to appeal. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(6)(b), as amended)
- The Planning Inspector acts on behalf of the responsible Government minister. The Planning Inspector considers appeals about delay – usually over eight weeks – by an authority in deciding an application for planning permission.
How I considered this complaint
- I considered information provided by the complainant.
- I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
My assessment
- I will not investigate X’s complaint because it is reasonable for them to use their right of appeal. Any complaints of delays in the consideration of a planning application can be appealed to a Planning Inspector. The Planning Inspector is an independent body which can determine any disputes about planning applications including delay and refusals. I see no reason why such an appeal could not be made in this case.
Final decision
- We will not investigate X’s complaint because it is reasonable for them to appeal to the Planning Inspector.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman