New Planning Laws, Help Or Hindrance?

In a quest to get Britain building again and in response to the slowness of the housing market, the government last year announced proposals that allow homeowners to build large extensions and conservatories without planning permission for a three-year time period.

Enforced from 30th May 2013 until 30th May 2016, householders can submit proposed plans to build a single storey home extension up to 8 metres long to their local authority who will then advise neighbouring homes of their intentions, giving them 21 days to respond. If any objections are received the local authority will more than likely request that the homeowner submits a full planning application which may not necessarily meet with approval.

There are other potential pitfalls those looking to take advantage of these new planning laws need to be aware of too.

Several councils in the UK have sought an exception to the new rules and therefore fall outside of the criteria. In which case, the previous existing planning regulations still stand, so before building up your hopes (excuse the pun) it is extremely advisable that you contact your local authority at the very beginning to see where you stand as far as extending your home is concerned. Those living in a new-build home particularly need to be aware of their Permitted Development Rights.

Also, don’t lose sight of Building Regulations. This new law only applies to Permitted Development Rights, so in order to comply with any Building Regulations you may need gain planning consent beforehand.

Confused? It’s completely understandable!

If you’re keen to extend your home with a conservatory or orangery from Hazlemere then it’s well worth getting in touch with us as there are other things you need to look out for and we can help advise you of them. The last thing you want to do is make any expensive mistakes.