Planning Permission in Broadway

Planning Permission in Broadway

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a few regions by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to all building regulations corresponding 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 use an architect to draft technical drawings and to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans detailing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is taken into account from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.