Planning Permission in Shanklin

Planning Permission in Shanklin

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will typically not need planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions tend to be covered under permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few regions by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're considering 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 neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to abide by all building regulations related to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion such as 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 taken into account from the start of the project, it is much less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.