Planning Permission in Cumbria

Planning Permission in Cumbria

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few areas by councils, usually in new builds, so it's always worth checking 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. Furthermore, 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 abide by all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally a good idea to use an architect to draw up plans and 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 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.