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Planning Permission Guide

Planning permission involves seeking approval to carry out specific building work, whether it’s an extension to a house or a large-scale development. Permission may be granted with conditions or refused based on the national planning policy framework. Local planning authorities have their own local plans, which can be found on the planning portal. These plans provide detailed information on specific areas, including any upcoming plans or restrictions.

The planning application process

Planning permission is vital for the success of most architectural work in the UK. That is exactly why CK Architectural is dedicated to offering our services to clients across Leicester and the surrounding areas who are looking to get planning permission, consultation, or utilise their permitted development rights.

We work with you no matter what stage of the project you are at, helping you to get a better understanding of the planning process most likely suited to you and your project and helping you navigate your way to approval. 

Contact our team today and we’ll give you all of the advice you need on the planning process best suited to your project and how we can help you most.

What We Do

CK Architectural provides a full range of planning services to our clients across Leicester. We create planning drawings, submit them to the local authority and liaise with them until approval is gained for your project all as a part of the same award winning service.

We also provide planning consultancy services across Leicester too. This is often best suited for larger projects or even commercial work, allowing us to do a deep dive into what it is that you need from your project and guiding you to the relevant specialists you may need along the way as well as how best to go about getting approval suited to your requirements.

From pre-planning feasibility studies to helping residential planning applications or permitted development and even commercial level applications, consulting, and drawing, we can help. 

What is Permitted Development?

Permitted Development Rights allow for certain types of building work on homes or properties without the need for Planning Permission. This includes minor extensions, demolition, and specific changes of use such as converting a loft, garage, or cellar. It’s important to note that while most houses have Permitted Development Rights, flats and maisonettes typically require full planning permission. Additionally, Permitted Development Rights may be limited in conservation areas, national parks, and areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Extensions

In the UK, Permitted Development Rights for a single-story extension allow for certain dimensions and conditions without the need for Planning Permission. As of September 2020, for a detached house, the maximum depth of a single-story rear extension is 8 meters for a detached house and 6 meters for any other type of house. However, there are additional criteria and restrictions based on factors such as the original house’s size and location, as well as any previous extensions. It is advisable to consult with your local planning authority or a professional architect to ensure compliance with specific regulations and conditions.

Loft Conversions

Permitted Development Rights (PD rights) for a loft conversion in the UK allow for certain types of loft conversions without the need for Planning Permission. As of September 2020, some of the key criteria for a loft conversion under PD rights include:

  • Adding a loft conversion should not exceed a volume allowance of 40 cubic meters for terraced houses and 50 cubic meters for detached and semi-detached houses.
  • The loft extension should not extend beyond the plane of the existing roof slope facing the road.
  • No part of the loft extension should be higher than the highest part of the existing roof.
  • Side-facing windows should be obscure-glazed and non-opening if they are located within 1.7 meters of the floor level.

It is important to note that specific requirements and restrictions may vary depending on the location and the property’s characteristics. Checking with your local planning authority or consulting an architect is recommended to ensure compliance with PD rights for loft conversions in your specific area.

Do I need planning permission?

You will need planning permission if you want to build a new structure, make a major change to an existing structure, or change the use of a building. If you want to find out if you require Planning Permission then send us your details.

Still have a few questions?

Speak to our friendly team today