Planning Permission in Swadlincote

Planning Permission in Swadlincote

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can consent to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't intend to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which protect a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in some areas by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're intending to undertake 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 need a Party Wall Agreement. You must comply with all building regulations relevant to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion like insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to utilise an architect to draft plans 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. The vast majority of planning permission applications in England are approved.