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Homeowners In England Can Build Bigger Extensions Without Planning Permission

Homeowners In England Can Build Bigger Extensions Without Planning Permission

New government rules means homeowners no longer need planning permission from the council.

Elizabeth Adetula

Elizabeth Adetula

Homeowners in England will now be able to build bigger extensions to their houses without obtaining planning permission from the council.

The new rules mean the single-storey extension limit is now 6m for people who own terraces or semi-detached houses, and 8m for people with detached houses, according to Manchester Evening News.

However, it's worth noting that new rules only apply to single-storey rear extensions, and neighbours will still be informed and given the opportunity to raise objections.

Pexels

The move comes after temporary laws, put in place in 2014, were made permanent in parliament.

Although homeowners no longer require formal planning permission for these types of extensions, they will still need to let their local council know their extension plans beforehand and the council will then inform their neighbours.

If neighbours disapprove, then the council will reassess whether or not the proposal will impact the area and their neighbours, and may or may not give the green light.

Building
Building

Speaking about the rules, Housing Minister, Kit Malthouse MP, said: "These measures will help families extend their properties without battling through time-consuming red tape. By making this permitted development right permanent, it will mean families can grow without being forced to move.

"This is part of a package of reforms to build more, better, faster and make the housing market work - and sits alongside our drive to deliver 300,000 homes a year by the mid 2020s."

Houses
Houses

These new changes will also cover shop owners who will now be able to convert their shops into office spaces. Betting shops, offices and shops will also be allowed to temporarily change to community based uses like libraries and public halls.

These updated laws also mean that certain business owners, such takeaways, may be able to change their business into homes.

Since the former temporary law came into effect in 2014, over 100,000 people have made use of the new rules according to reports.

Featured Image Credit: Pexels

Topics: Life News, Home