Planning Permission in Carrickfergus

Planning Permission in Carrickfergus

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will mostly not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few regions by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to conform to all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draw up technical drawings and also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll likely still need to submit plans detailing 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 majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.