Planning Permission in Wigston

Planning Permission in Wigston

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by giving permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will usually not need planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not intend to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions are often protected by 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 However, these rights have been rescinded in some areas by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are intending to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. Furthermore, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to adhere to all building regulations pertaining 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 often a good idea to use an architect to draft plans and to 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 considered 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.