Larger Home Extensions: Planning Permission Changes

Homeowners in England can now build larger extensions without needing full planning permission. These changes make permanent the temporary rules that have been in place since 2013.

Here are some key details about the new rules:

•Extension sizes: Additions to terraced and semi-detached homes can be up to 6m, while detached houses can add structures up to 8m long.

•Notification process: Homeowners notify the council of their building work beforehand, and the council informs neighbours.

•Neighbour objections: Neighbours can raise objections, and the council decides if the extension will negatively impact the area. If there is a negative impact, the council may block the plans.

•Previous rules: The temporary rules doubled the previous limits for extensions that did not require planning permission.

•Purpose: The changes aim to help families extend their homes without the delays of a full planning application.

However, not everyone agrees with these changes.

•The Local Government Association believes that councils have less opportunity to consider the impact of extensions on their local area. They also argue that the planning process exists for a reason.

•They have called for an independent review of the impact of the changes on residents and businesses, and also local planning departments.

In other parts of the UK, rear extensions of more than 3m or 4m still require a full planning application. The changes also include removing some planning rules to allow business owners to respond to changes in England's high streets. Shops can be converted into office space without a full planning application. Shops, offices, and betting shops can also temporarily change to community uses such as libraries or public halls.