Planning refused on highways grounds? Appeals and expert evidence.
If your application has been refused on highways grounds, we will tell you honestly whether the reason stands up, and give the transport evidence at appeal if it does not.
Also known as: planning refused on highways grounds, highways reason for refusal, highways appeal, highways expert witness, transport proof of evidence, statement of case, Rule 6 party highways
What’s included.
Highways reasons for refusal are often weaker than they look. The test in NPPF policy TR6(4) is whether the impact on highway safety is unacceptable or the residual effect on the network is severe. A refusal has to be backed by evidence. We review the decision, the officer’s report and the consultation responses, then advise on whether to appeal, resubmit or change the scheme.
- Review of the refusal and the case file
- Advice on appeal, resubmission or redesign
- Statements of case and statements of common ground
- Proofs of evidence and rebuttals
- Hearings and public inquiries
- Evidence for Rule 6 parties and objectors where appropriate
- Support on costs applications
- Further technical work where it strengthens the case
Straightforward, proportionate, agreed early.
An honest first view
A short review tells you whether the highways reason is likely to survive at appeal before you spend money on it.
Common ground first
Many highways issues can be narrowed or settled with the council before the hearing, which keeps the appeal focused and cheaper.
Evidence that holds up
Clear, independent evidence written for the Inspector, and given in person by the person who wrote it.
Questions we get asked
Can a highways reason for refusal be overturned?
Often, yes, where the council has not shown that the impact is unacceptable or severe. Inspectors decide on the evidence, not on the number of objections.
Should we appeal or resubmit?
It depends on the reason for refusal and the timescale. Sometimes a revised application with better evidence is quicker. We will give you a straight recommendation.
Can we claim costs if the council had no highways evidence?
An award of costs is possible where a council behaves unreasonably, for example refusing on highways grounds without evidence. We can advise on whether it is worth applying.
Often needed alongside.
Last reviewed October 2026 by Ripple Development Planning. Policy and guidance change; for advice on a specific site, send us the details.
From our insights.
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