Buying Council Land in the UK – A Complete Guide

Buying council land can be an excellent opportunity for homeowners looking to extend their property or investors seeking development sites. While the process is different from purchasing private land, it’s definitely possible with the right approach and understanding of council procedures.

This guide explains how to buy council land in the UK, including the application process, costs involved, and what you need to know to improve your chances of success.

What is Council Land and Why Buy It?

Council land refers to property owned by local authorities across the UK. This includes everything from small plots next to residential homes to larger development sites, parks, former school buildings, and surplus land no longer needed for public use.

Benefits of buying council land:

• Often more affordable than privately-owned land
• Located in desirable areas near schools, parks, and amenities
• May be eligible for government programs and incentives
• Can provide opportunities for property extension or development

Council land isn’t typically advertised on the open market like private property. Instead, you need to contact the council directly and follow their specific application process.

Types of Council Land Available

Garden Extensions

The most common purchases involve small plots adjacent to residential properties. Homeowners often buy these areas to extend their gardens or create additional outdoor space.

Surplus Land

Councils occasionally dispose of land that’s no longer required for public purposes, such as former school sites, unused administrative buildings, or redundant green spaces.

Development Sites

Larger plots suitable for residential or commercial development may become available, though these often go through competitive tender processes.

The Application Process

Step 1: Contact the Council

To buy council land, you must apply directly to the local authority. Each council has its own procedures, but most handle land sales through their Estates and Property department.

Contact the council by:

• Checking their website for land disposal policies
• Calling or emailing the Estates and Property department
• Asking about available land and application procedures
• Requesting information about fees and timescales

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Your application must be submitted in writing and should include:

• Clear identification of the land you want to purchase
• Proposed use for the land
• Your contact details and proof of identity
• Evidence of your ability to complete the purchase
• Any development plans or intentions

Step 3: Council Consultation Process

Once received, the council will undertake an internal consultation. This involves:

• Review by council officers and ward members
• Assessment of the land’s importance to the council
• Consideration of community needs and potential objections
• Evaluation of your proposed use

Under the Local Government Act 1972, councils must advertise applications to buy Public Open Space in local newspapers for at least two weeks to gather objections.

Step 4: Valuation and Decision

If the council agrees to sell, they’ll arrange a professional valuation. Councils are legally required to obtain the best value for public assets, which means the price will reflect current market conditions and any development potential.

You’ll then receive a formal offer outlining the price and any conditions or restrictions on the land use.

Costs and Fees

Application Fees

Most councils charge a non-refundable application fee ranging from £175 to £600 plus VAT. This fee applies whether or not the sale proceeds.

Council’s Legal Costs

You’ll be required to pay the council’s costs, typically including:

• Legal fees (usually £350-£1,500 depending on complexity)
• Administrative processing costs
• Professional valuation fees
• Land Registry fees
• Advertising costs if required

Your Own Costs

Budget for your own expenses:

• Solicitor’s fees
• Independent survey costs
• Land Registry registration
• Planning application fees (if development intended)

Total costs (excluding land price) typically range from £1,000-£3,000 for simple purchases, more for complex transactions.

Legal Requirements and Restrictions

Best Value Obligation

Under the Local Government Act 1972, councils must seek the best possible value when selling public assets. This means they may:

• Pursue competitive sales or auctions instead of direct negotiations
• Consider multiple offers even after initially accepting yours
• Refuse offers below market value

No Automatic Right to Purchase

There’s no legal right to buy council land. Councils can refuse applications for various reasons:

• Land required for future public use
• Environmental or conservation concerns
• Community objections
• Planning restrictions
• Strategic importance to the council

Restrictive Covenants

Council land sales typically include restrictions such as:

• Limitations on commercial use
• Building height and density restrictions
• Requirements to maintain certain features
• Prohibitions on subdivision or resale

Timeline and Process Duration

The complete process typically takes 3-6 months:

Initial stages (6-12 weeks):

• Application submission and review
• Internal council consultation
• Decision on whether to proceed

If approved (6-12 weeks):

• Professional valuation
• Formal offer preparation
• Legal documentation

Completion (4-8 weeks):

• Contract negotiations
• Legal completion
• Land Registry registration

Some councils set specific milestones for progressing the purchase, and like private sales, the property remains “subject to contract” until exchange.

Planning and Development Considerations

Planning Permission

Buying council land doesn’t automatically grant planning rights. You’ll still need to:

• Apply for planning permission if required
• Comply with local development policies
• Consider building regulations
• Check for protected designations or constraints

Land Use Restrictions

Consider that purchased land may come with restrictive covenants limiting:

• Types of development permitted
• Commercial use of the property
• Future sale or subdivision
• Maintenance requirements

Tips for a Successful Application

Research First

Before applying:

• Check the council’s published land disposal policy
• Research the planning history of the site
• Understand any existing restrictions or designations
• Look at comparable sales in the area

Present a Strong Application

Your application should:

• Clearly explain your intended use
• Demonstrate your financial capability
• Show how the purchase might benefit the community
• Include realistic timelines and plans

Use Professional Help

Consider engaging:

• A solicitor experienced in council land purchases
• A chartered surveyor for valuation advice
• A planning consultant if development is intended

Be Patient and Realistic

• Expect the process to take several months
• Be prepared to negotiate on terms and conditions
• Have your financing arranged in advance
• Maintain regular contact with council officers

What Happens If Your Application is Refused?

If the council refuses your application, you can:

• Request detailed feedback on the reasons
• Address any concerns and submit a revised application
• Look for alternative council land in the area
• Consider whether an appeal through local government procedures is appropriate

Financing Your Purchase

Traditional Mortgages

You may be able to secure a standard mortgage for council land purchases, though lenders will want to see clear title and development potential.

Specialist Financing

For development projects, consider:

• Land bridging loans for short-term financing
• Development finance for construction projects
• Commercial mortgages for business use

The Bottom Line

Buying council land is possible but requires understanding that:

• There’s no automatic right to purchase council land
• Each council has different procedures and policies
• The process takes time – typically 3-6 months minimum
• Costs can be significant – budget £1,000-£3,000+ in fees alone
• Professional advice is essential for complex purchases
• Restrictions usually apply to how you can use the land

Success depends on presenting a well-prepared application, being realistic about timescales and costs, and working with experienced professionals who understand council procedures.

While the process is more complex than buying private land, thousands of council land purchases complete successfully each year. The key is patience, preparation, and understanding what councils are looking for in potential buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last Updated on September 21, 2025 by James Cartwright