Planning Permission in Birkenhead

Planning Permission in Birkenhead

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few locations by local authorities, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must abide by all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to work with an architect to draft plans 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. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.