Planning Permission in North Shields

Planning Permission in North Shields

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise 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 don't plan to expand the structure of your house. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain areas by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it's always worth checking with your local authority. If you're thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need 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 generally a good idea to use an architect to draw up technical drawings and to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll likely still need to submit plans detailing the change of use of the garage to your local authority. If planning permission is taken into account from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.