Planning Permission in Wallasey

Planning Permission in Wallasey

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can authorise building works by granting permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will mostly not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not plan to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions tend to be protected by permitted development rights, which protect a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in a number of areas by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it's always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're intending on undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will need a Party Wall Agreement. You must comply with all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draft plans and approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You will 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.