Larger Extensions

In 2018, the chancellor announced a temporary change to the National Planning Policy Framework. To allow homeowners to extend the properties by up to 8 meters. In 2021 this was adopted as permanent change.

What are Larger Extensions?

Under Permitted Develop Rules a home owner, in usual circumstances are allowed to extend the rear of their home, by 3 meters. This legislation means that terraced and semi-detached properties can extend by up to 6 meters and detached properties by up to 8 meters.

What is Prior Approval?

Prior Approval is a type of Planning Application, which after validation the Local has 42 days to make a determination. If the Local Authority does not issue a decision in this time the work may go ahead.

What are the restrictions?

The extension must be of a similar character to the host dwelling
Use a similar pallet of materials. It must not affect neighboring amenities.
Only half the area of land around the "original house"* can be covered by extensions or other buildings.
Extensions cannot be higher than the highest part of the existing roof; or higher at the eaves than the existing eaves.
Where the extension comes within two meters of the boundary* the height at the eaves cannot exceed three meters.
Extension cannot be built forward of the ‘principal elevation’ or, where it fronts a highway, the ‘side elevation’.
The work cannot include:
verandas, balconies* or raised platforms.
a microwave antenna (e.g. TV aerial or satellite dish).
a chimney, flue or soil and vent pipe.
any alteration to the roof of the existing house.
On Article 2(3) designated land* the work cannot include cladding of the exterior.
The materials used in any exterior work must be of a similar appearance to those on the exterior of the existing house.

(Planning Portal, 2024)

Good reasons to undertake a Larger Extension?

A larger extension will increase the internal usable floor space, to allow for perhaps an area to dwell a new kitchen, or a sun room or orangery to host guests.

The value of the property may increase, through the increased floor area and desirability.

Find out more?

If you would like to find out more and how we may be able to help you please get in touch.