September’s Market Insight Report is now available

Planning application numbers continue to climb across England, with most regions reporting strong month-on-month and year-on-year growth, according to the latest Market Insight Report (MIR) for September 2025.

A total of 50,238 applications were submitted in September, representing a 3% increase on September 2024 and a 13% rise on August 2025.

Regional trends

Compared to the same month last year, all English regions recorded increases in planning applications, while Wales was the only area to see a decline, down 8% year-on-year.

London saw the highest real increase, with 1,099 more applications than in September 2024, while the East of England, London, and the North East each posted growth of 13% to 14%.

Month-on-month figures also showed a strong performance across the board, with every region reporting growth of 8% or more compared to August 2025. London and the North East led the way, rising 20% and 21% respectively, with London’s total increasing by 1,599 applications in real terms.

Looking at the year to date, all English regions have recorded higher volumes than during the same period in 2024. The East of England stands out with a 10% increase, equating to more than 5,300 additional applications, while Wales remains the only area to see fewer applications, down 2%

Application types

Householder applications rose by 1% compared to September 2024 and 10% month-on-month, indicating renewed activity in the domestic improvement sector. Applications for larger home extensions were up 14% year-on-year.

Full planning applications also performed strongly, increasing by 14% both month-on-month and year-on-year. Outline applications showed the most dramatic rise, up 37% compared to September 2024—an increase of almost 100 applications in real terms.

Overall, September’s data highlights a robust and growing planning landscape across England, with notable momentum in full and outline applications. While Wales continues to buck the trend with slight declines, the general picture remains one of steady recovery and renewed activity across the planning sector.