Thinking of Extending or Altering Your Home?

Introduction

Prior to making a planning application, you should establish whether or not you actually need planning permission. Some building works do not require permission.

This can often be checked by telephoning staff in the Development Control Group, or by enquiring at the reception desk of the Planning Section. Written confirmation can also be obtained if you forward details of your proposal in writing. We usually ask you to do this in order that we may give a more informed answer. With alterations or extensions to domestic property the Government has introduced changes to Permitted Development in an attempt to reduce the amount of red tape for householders seeking to improve their homes.

Permitted development governs the changes that can be made to an existing house without the need for a planning application to be submitted to the local planning authority.  This does not affect the need for building regulations approval.

Click this link to go to an illustrative guide to the new rules.

Informal Planning Advice

Officers can, if required, give informal advice on the likelihood of planning permission being granted, although this will always be without prejudice to the final decision, should a planning application be made. This is because there are many factors to be taken into account when a planning application is considered and many people become involved in each stage of the application up until the decision is made. No commitments to the outcome of an application will be given therefore.

If work is undertaken without approval it can cause problems when a property is being sold and in some instances can result in Enforcement action. The Council is trying to raise awareness and prevent such problems arising.

Before altering or extending your property it is important to check whether Planning Permission and/or Building Regulations Approval is required. You may wish to or use the Pre-Application Enquiry form available by clicking on the link at the bottom of this page.

For more detailed information about the need for planning permission, visit the Planning Portal's Planning Guide

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