Planning Permission in Redditch

Planning Permission in Redditch

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in some locations by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are planning to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to comply with all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to work with an architect to draft 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 considered from the start of the project, it is far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.