Planning Permission in Abberley

Planning Permission in Abberley

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in some areas by local authorities, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to abide by all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally a good idea to use an architect to draft technical drawings and also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll likely still need to submit plans describing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is considered from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.