Planning Permission in Southwark

Planning Permission in Southwark

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not intend to enlarge the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a few areas by local authorities, particularly in new builds, so it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are considering undertaking 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 neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to comply with all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover aspects of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up plans and to 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 majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.