Planning Permission in Newcastle-under-lyme

Planning Permission in Newcastle-under-lyme

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in some areas by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to comply with all building regulations related 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 often a good idea to work with an architect to draw up plans 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.