Planning Permission in Morecambe

Planning Permission in Morecambe

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge 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 However, these rights have been rescinded in certain areas by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority.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 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 must abide by all building regulations relevant 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 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. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.