Planning permission is a requirement for a house extension in Manchester, and it can be difficult to know where to start. Luckily, with the help of this article, you will have all the information you need to get planning permission for your house extension!
Planning permission is a legal requirement that must be obtained before starting any building work. It is granted by your local planning authority and allows them to assess whether the proposed development will comply with all the relevant planning regulations.
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Every local planning authority in the UK has its own set of development policies. These are compiled by local planners and provide detailed guidelines for what is considered suitable development in each area.
General Policies
House extensions should be built in the same style as the existing house or in keeping with local architecture.
Extensions must not be higher than the highest part of an existing dwelling unless this would cause unreasonable overshadowing to adjacent properties.
If your property is listed, you are unlikely to get planning permission for a house extension.
The extension should not adversely affect the amenity of neighbouring properties.
Your home must have at least two habitable rooms on each floor.
The extension should not increase the size of your house by more than 50%
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Householders are allowed to carry out certain types of minor works without needing planning permission. These are known as 'permitted development rights. To find out whether your proposed extension falls within these rights, please see the government's planning portal.
For any standard housing property in Manchester and in the UK you can expect the following rules for a permitted development rear extension:
- A maximum of 4m in building height.
- A maximum of 3m in footprint from the rear wall of the existing house.
- A maximum of the full width of the existing house.
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1) The Local Plan: This is the overarching policy document that sets out the planning strategy for the entire area. It will identify areas that are zoned for residential development and will give details of the maximum number of new homes that can be built in each area.
It is important to check whether you are in sensitive areas from this document, such as the greenbelt. For more information on greenbelt planning permission, see our guide here.
2) Site-Specific Policies: In addition to the Local Plan, each site will also have its own set of specific policies that must be considered. These might include policies on design, height and density, as well as the protection of heritage assets.
3) Conservation Areas: If your property is located within a conservation area, then you will need to comply with additional policies that are designed to protect the character and appearance of these areas.
4) The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF): This is a government policy document that sets out the principles that should be followed when making decisions about planning applications. It gives guidance on how to achieve sustainable development while protecting the environment and heritage.
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The best way to find out is to submit a planning application. This will allow your local planning authority to assess your extension against all of the relevant policies. If you are unsure about which policies apply or whether your extension will comply with them, then you can speak to a planning officer for advice.
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If your extension does not comply with the relevant policies, then your local planning authority has the power to refuse planning permission. In some cases, they may be willing to grant planning permission if you agree to make certain alterations to your extension. However, it is always best to ensure that your extension complies with all the relevant policies before submitting a planning application.
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Most house extensions in Manchester require planning permission, although there are a few exceptions. The most common reasons for needing planning permission are:
The extension will exceed the permitted development rights.
The extension is in a conservation area or has listed building status.
The proposed extension will result in increased noise or pollution levels.
The new structure will cast shadows on neighbouring properties.
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