Planning Permission in Wellingborough

Planning Permission in Wellingborough

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to 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 don't intend to expand the structure of the property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in certain locations by local authorities, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority.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 must adhere to all building regulations relevant 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 generally a good idea to work with 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 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.