Planning Permission in Welshpool

Planning Permission in Welshpool

Planning permission is a system where local authorities can consent to building works by giving permission for the planned work. Garage conversions will often not require planning permission, as long as the work is internal and you don't plan to enlarge the structure of your property. Garage conversions are usually protected by permitted development rights, which cover a variety of home improvement work. However, these rights have been taken away in certain areas by councils, particularly in new builds, therefore it is always worth checking with your local authority. If you're thinking about undertaking a garage conversion on a listed building or are in a conservation area, you will require planning permission. In addition, if any of the walls of your garage are shared walls with a neighbour, you must obtain a Party Wall Agreement. You must comply with all building regulations pertaining to your garage conversion whether or not you need planning permission. These building regulations cover parts of the conversion including insulation, escape routes, fire proofing and ventilation, so it is often a good idea to utilise an architect to draw up plans also 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 far less likely that there will be any trouble further down the road. Nearly all planning permission applications in England are approved.