Planning Permission in Isle Of Colonsay
Planning permission is a system whereby local authorities can agree to building works by granting permission for the proposed work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, so long as the work is internal and you don't plan to expand the structure of your property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a number of home improvement work. However, these rights have been removed in certain regions by councils, especially in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you are preparing to undertake a garage conversion on a listed building or live in a conservation area, you will need planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you will require a Party Wall Agreement. You will still need to abide by 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 usually a good idea to utilise an architect to draft plans and also to approve designs in order to ensure compliance with these regulations. You'll 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.
