Planning Permission in Melrose

Planning Permission in Melrose

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 require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in certain regions by councils, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're intending 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 neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to abide by all building regulations related 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 generally a good idea to utilise an architect to draft technical drawings 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.