Planning Permission in Cambridgeshire

Planning Permission in Cambridgeshire

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in some regions by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're considering 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 neighbouring property, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must adhere to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts 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 taken into account from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.