Loft conversions and dormers in Southwark
3,694 applications since 2019. 3,059 approved and 325 refused. Refused: about 1 in 10 here, about 1 in 6 across the councils we cover.
Last updated 9 November 2026.
Without planning permission
- Up to 40 cubic metres of extra roof space on a terrace, 50 on a semi or detached house
- Not on the roof slope facing a road, and no higher than the existing roof
- Materials similar in appearance, set back about 0.2 m from the eaves, and side windows obscure-glazed
England, houses only. Flats, listed buildings, conservation areas and Article 4 directions change this. The full rules.
Year by year
| Year | Applications | Approved | Refused |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 350 | 228 | 15 |
| 2025 | 449 | 393 | 29 |
| 2024 | 426 | 365 | 38 |
| 2023 | 389 | 318 | 37 |
| 2022 | 497 | 422 | 52 |
| 2021 | 561 | 467 | 56 |
| 2020 | 520 | 439 | 55 |
| 2019 | 502 | 427 | 43 |
Neighbouring councils
| Council | Approved | Refused | How often |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bromley | 15,619 | 4,565 | about 1 in 4 |
| City | 152 | 2 | about 1 in 77 |
| Lambeth | 3,976 | 1,034 | about 1 in 5 |
| Lewisham | 1,984 | 521 | about 1 in 5 |
| Tower Hamlets | 1,101 | 313 | about 1 in 5 |