Planning Permission in Gwynedd

Planning Permission in Gwynedd

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain areas by local authorities, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to conform to all building regulations corresponding 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 usually a good idea to use an architect to draft technical drawings also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will likely still need to submit plans describing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is considered from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.