At just under 689,000, they are at their lowest level since 2012

Planning applications have fallen to their lowest level since 2012, according to new data from Landmark Information Group, which shows that just under 689,000 were submitted in 2025 and that planning activity has declined each year since its post-pandemic peak in 2021.

The national rate fell to a record low of 995 applications per 100,000 people.

Meanwhile, new build applications are down 5.5% year-on-year to 198,240 applications in 2025. This is despite continued government policy focused on increasing housing supply.

Despite the overall decline in planning activity, Landmark says that average grant rates remain high at around 86%, which it says shows the hiatus is caused by fewer applications in the first place, rather than an increase in planning refusals.

19% of applications are now submitted with decision status still unknown, the highest proportion on record, according to Landmark.

Alterations and conversions account for 4 in ten applications

Applications for major works such as extensions and home improvements have fallen sharply from their 2021 peak. Extension applications are down 44% compared to post-lockdown highs.

Alterations and conversions now account for almost 40% of all planning activity and have risen by 4.9% compared with 2024, indicating a shift towards refurbishment, change of use and the re-use of existing buildings, says Landmark.

Josh Rains, managing director of Landmark Geodata, said planning reform is required. “While approval rates remain strong, fewer applications are coming forward in the first place. That points to deeper structural challenges in the planning system, particularly around uncertainty and the time it takes to reach a clear outcome,” he said.

“Planning reform has the potential to address these issues, but success will depend on improving decision-making earlier in the process. Better use of data can help identify risks sooner, make applications clearer and give developers greater confidence before submitting applications. However, delivery will ultimately depend on how effectively the three core pillars of the planning system, process, people and technology, work together.

“Reform may improve the mechanics of planning, but without the right planning capacity, specialist expertise and the effective use of data and technology, the system will continue to face friction. If these elements can be brought together more effectively, the planning process can operate with greater certainty and support long-term housing delivery.”