Getting planning permission when looking to expand your family home can be a minefield of negotiating neighbours objections. However, due to a new planning law this could become a thing of the past.
Related: You'll find it harder to get planning permission if you live HERE
The new planning laws announced by Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick will allow families to add two storeys to their homes WITHOUT full planning permission.
The new planning law will come into effect in September as part of a package of measures designed to shake up planning permission and revitalise town centres.
New planning law for extensions
The new plans will allow families to add up to two storeys to their home without full planning permission through a fast track process. The aim is to create new homes and living space for growing families.
The new right means that homeowners will still need to comply with building regulations and carefully consider the impact on neighbours and the appearance of the extension. However, while the local authorities will still need to consult neighbours about the plans, their powers to object and block extensions will be reduced.
The right will initially only be available purpose-built blocks of flats. However, it will be rolled out to all detached properties.
There are concerns that the new plans will lead to a rash of unsightly developments and clash between neighbours. However, government ministers hope the new plans will make it easier for growing families to expand their properties without having to move.
They are also optimistic that it will also encourage developers to add new homes to existing buildings.
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said:'We are reforming the planning system and cutting out unnecessary bureaucracy to give small business owners the freedom they need to adapt and evolve, and to renew our town centres with new enterprises and more housing.'
'These changes will help transform boarded up, unused buildings safely into high quality homes at the heart of their communities. It will mean that families can add up to 2 storeys to their home, providing much needed additional space for children or elderly relatives as their household grows,' he added
Related: Homeowners can now build large extensions WITHOUT the need for planning permission
If you love your community but your growing brood of kids are struggling to fit in your home, skip the stress of moving and extra moving costs, and consider an extension.
However, although neighbours might not have the same ability to block a proposed extension, it's always best to keep them in the loop about any upcoming construction.
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