Planning Permission in Cambridge

Planning Permission in Cambridge

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few regions by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to work with an architect to draft technical drawings 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 taken into account from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.