Expression Design & Planning
Expression Design & Planning

Large Home Prior Approval

You will need to get what’s called 'Prior Approval' from the local planning authority (LPA) if you want to use your permitted development rights to build a rear extension to up to 8 metres (detached) or 6 metres (other houses), even though this falls under permitted development rights, 

This doesn’t carry a fee by itself. But you’ll need to pay around £90 for a Lawful Development Certificate, which is an essential document to have when you come to sell the house.

Prior Approval Larger Home Kitchen

The application for Prior Approval: Larger Home Extension

Property Owners (or their Planning Agent) can fill out the application online with the following detail and docs:
 
  • A written description including heights and widths of extensions
  • A plan of the site showing proposed development as well as detailing any existing enlargements since 1948. A scaled drawing is preferred by the authority to assist them in making decisions and expediting the process
  • Addresses of all the adjacent properties to front, rear and sides
  • All relevant information associated with the development. If there is insufficient documentation provided, the LPA can refuse the application.
 
A decision will be given within 42 days once the submission is received, if not then you’ve hit a legal loophole and you’re free to develop.  
 
The local authority will write to all owners and/or occupiers who share a boundary, serving notice and detailing the works. Neighbours will have a minimum of 21 days during which to raise an objection. Prior approval will be required from the LPA if an objection is raised.
 
As long as the works falls within the Permitted Development criteria, approval will be given in the form of a Lawful Development Certificate, and development can be started if the LPA notifies you that no one has raised an objection, or if the objections were not strong enough to warrant denying approval.

What if the application is refused?

The council have very little power to decline an application, as long as your extension falls within permitted development rights.
 
Developers are also able to appeal against any decision against them.
larger home prior approval

Can I amend the plan if I get approval and then change my mind?

Yes as long as:

  • The neighbours have not objected to the development and you have submitted any changes to the LPA

  • The LPA agree to the proposed changes in writing even though there were objections

  • The LPA did not grant you approval within 42 days

You will need to stick to the original proposals In all other circumstances