Planning Permission in Holmfirth

Planning Permission in Holmfirth

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will usually not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of your house. Garage conversions are usually covered under permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in certain regions by councils, usually in new builds, therefore it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you are preparing 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 neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You are required to 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 utilise an architect to draw up technical drawings 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. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.