Regulations due to come into effect on 30 May will allow larger extensions to homes (as well as offices and shops) without needing to submit a planning application. The additional size limits will go from 4 to 8 metres for detached houses and from 3 to 6 metres for other houses.
The new rules will apply initially for 3 years – 30 May 2013 to 30 May 2016. Such an extension would have to be completed by the latter date with notice of completion given to the council.
These larger house extensions will be subject to ‘light-touch’ consultation with neighbours. The council will have to be notified in advance with 42 days to determine whether neighbours would be affected. Neighbours will be informed about the proposal and have a minimum of 21 days to object. If there are no objections or the council does not agree with any objections made, the project will be able to go ahead.