Planning Permission in Gateshead

Planning Permission in Gateshead

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions are often protected by permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few regions by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it's always worth checking 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 require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to comply with all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is generally a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up plans also to 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 considered from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.