Planning Permission in Cromer

Planning Permission in Cromer

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed 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 your property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in a number of regions by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You are required 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 including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to use an architect to draw up plans and 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. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.