Planning Permission in Hungerford

Planning Permission in Hungerford

Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can authorise building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will typically not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you do not plan to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are often covered under permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been rescinded in a few regions by local authorities, especially in new builds, so it is always worth verifying with your local authority. If you're considering undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbouring property, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You must conform to all building regulations corresponding to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover elements of the conversion such as insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is usually a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up technical drawings and also 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 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.