Planning Permission in Houghton Le Spring

Planning Permission in Houghton Le Spring

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few regions by councils, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need 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 adhere to all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects 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 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 line. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.