The render sample was submitted on February 13th 2015. We were unclear when this would be approved but they said if they take more than 12 weeks we will receive our application fee back. Today we received this

… the submitted coloured render is unacceptable, given its contrasting colour in relation to the neighbouring properties, which are all built of stone walls. Please find below two options which would be preferable, as they will appear subservient to the adjacent properties.

At least they suggested two colours which is a way forward. The odd factor is that their suggestions are radically different to the white cement render that is currently applied to all the walls with the exception of the front. The front is staying essentially the same anyway apart from a small plinth. Their suggested colours will 'match' on the front plinth but is a much more radical change on the other walls.
With luck we might get approval for a new colour in about two months!