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Under the new regulations building a loft conversion on a property that is not within designated land is considered permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, providing certain limits and conditions are met.
Designated land includes national parks and the Broads, Areas of outstanding Natural Beauty, Conservation areas and Word Heritage Sites.
For a loft conversion to be considered permitted development, not requiring planning permission it must:
* Not exceed the volume allowance of 40 cubic meters of additional space for terraced houses, or 50 cubic meters for detached and semi-detached houses. Any previous roof space additions must be included within this volume allowance. Although you may not have created additional space a previous owner may have done so.
* Not have any dormers or extensions on the roof plane of the principal (front) elevation facing the road.
* Not contain any extension higher than the highest part of the roof
* Be constructed with materials similar in appearance to the existing house Not include verandas, balconies or raised platforms
* Have obscure-glazed side facing windows for any opening 1.7m above the floor
* Roof extensions to be set back at least 20cm from the eaves, is measured along the roof plane (Excluding hip to gable).
Loft Conversions Requiring Planning Permission
Exceeding Permitted Development
It is very possible that your plans for a loft conversion will not meet all the restrictions to be considered permitted development. You may want to have more space in your loft than the volume allowance permits, perhaps you are thinking of creating a front facing dormer or extension. You could also be considering the addition of a balcony or veranda to complement your loft. In whichever way your plans may differ from the restrictions, even the use of alternative materials; you will definitely need planning permission before going ahead.
Flat or Maisonette
The planning regime for flats and maisonettes differs in many important ways to that which covers houses. If you are only carrying out internal works, Planning Permission is most likely not required. However, local interpretation can vary so it is important to have this verified. If you are planning on altering the roof space with an extension or dormer, Planning Permission would be required prior to beginning any works.
Building a Loft Conversion in a Conservation Area
If you have lived in a conservation area for some time you are likely to be aware of the regulations and how these can affect home improvements. However if you have recently moved into the area it is most likely to be all new to you. That being said, one of the reasons that you purchased your new home may well have been the character of the area and the preservation the conservation status has provided. It is important to note, Conservation areas are not intended to lock an area in the past as a form of living museum, new development is often permitted but it will have to be undertaken sympathetically to conform to the existing environment. In a conservation area you will require planning permission for all dormers and roof extensions. It is absolutely necessary to obtain the required conservation area consent prior to beginning any works. Going ahead without this may result in a fine or imprisonment, or both.
At Drawing and Planning, our consultants have extensive knowledge and expertise in the numerous and varying planning Articles, Directions and restrictions that relate to Loft Conversions.
Our team of consultants would be glad to assist you with any query you may have regarding your Loft Conversions.
Should you need Loft Conversion planning permission, we would be glad to assist you with all elements of your application.
If you would require drawing only, our in house architects can provide you with detailed existing and proposed drawings for all types of Loft Conversions.
Call Drawing and Planning Today on 0208 202 3665 To Find Out How We Can Help You With Your Loft Conversion.
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