Updated October 2026
In short: In Newham, applications are submitted via the national Planning Portal and tracked on the council's online planning register. Newham includes major regeneration areas such as Stratford, the Royal Docks and Canning Town, alongside streets of Victorian terraces. House extensions often use permitted development, but HMO conversions, flats and new homes need careful checks.
| Project | What to check in Newham |
|---|---|
| Rear extension or loft on a house | Permitted development limits; prior approval for larger extensions |
| Converting a house to an HMO | Article 4 directions can remove permitted development rights; HMO licensing applies |
| Flats and conversions | Full planning; space standards and amenity space |
| New homes on small sites | Design, density, affordable housing contributions |
| Shopfronts and change of use | Class E flexibility, but check local policy |
Check the current Local Plan and any Article 4 directions on the council's website.
From idea to decision
| 1 | Research Look up decisions on similar properties nearby on the register. |
| 2 | Pre-application advice Recommended for anything beyond a simple extension. |
| 3 | Submit Plans and documents via the Planning Portal, with the fee. |
| 4 | Consultation Neighbours and consultees can comment. |
| 5 | Decision 8 weeks for most minor applications; longer for major schemes. |
How Fraser Bond helps
- Site sourcing and feasibility in Newham's regeneration areas
- Valuation before and after works
- HMO licensing and letting
- Sales and lettings of completed schemes
Related guides
Fraser Bond services: Development · Free valuation · Contact us
