Planning Permission in Port Talbot

Planning Permission in Port Talbot

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will mostly not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of your home. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a number of areas by councils, especially in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are intending on 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 must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must 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 usually a good idea to work with an architect to draw up technical drawings and approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the line. The majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.