Introduction – House Extensions Design Guide

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to extending your home in the UK. Whether you’re looking to add space for a growing family or simply want to enhance your living environment, extending your home can be both an economic and practical choice over moving. However, the process involves navigating through planning permissions, design considerations, and local regulations. Here’s what you need to know.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

One of the first questions to address is whether your proposed extension requires planning permission. Some extensions fall under ‘Permitted Development’, which does not necessitate formal planning consent, but there are nuances:

• • Permitted Development: This applies to certain types of extensions, like single-storey rear extensions up to a specified size, but always check current regulations as they can change.

• • Prior Approval: Even under Permitted Development, some projects require prior approval from the local council, especially if they involve altering the external appearance or increasing the volume of the house significantly.

• • Complex Regulations: It’s advisable to check with your local authority or use their online tools to determine if your project falls within these rights. Wigan Council, for example, offers a form to help you determine this.

Aims of This Guide

This document aims to:

• • Clarify the planning policies within the National Planning Policy Framework and local council plans like the Wigan Local Plan.

• • Promote awareness of good design practices that not only benefit your home but also respect the neighborhood’s character and amenities.

• • Enhance the quality of planning submissions to expedite approval processes and ensure better development outcomes.

 

Status of the Guide

This guide acts as a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), providing further detail on how to apply planning policies to house extensions.

General Design Guidelines

When planning your extension, consider:

• • Siting: The extension should complement the existing house without dominating the street scene or overshadowing neighbors.

• • Built Form and Scale: The extension should be subordinate in size to the original building, with roof designs that match or enhance the existing character.

• • Architectural Details: Reflect the original house’s style with elements like brickwork, cornices, or window styles.

• • Position of Windows and Doors: Ensure new openings do not compromise privacy or light for neighbors.

• • Materials and Finishes: Use materials that match or complement the host building to maintain aesthetic continuity.

• • Accessibility: Consider modifications for those with disabilities, ensuring these do not detract from the area’s amenity.

• • Boundary Treatments: Maintain or enhance landscaping to blend the extension with the environment, respecting privacy and views.

Common Forms of Extension

Here’s a brief on various extension types:

• • Rear Extensions: Often the least visible from the street but can impact neighboring properties. Single-storey extensions should not extend too far unless set back, while two-storey extensions must consider the “45-degree rule” for light and privacy.

• • Side Extensions: These can significantly alter street appearance. They should not close up spaces important to street character or reduce parking space.

• • Corner Plots: Present unique challenges due to visibility from multiple directions, requiring careful design to blend with existing structures.

• • Roof Extensions: Must match the original house’s character, with materials like slate or stone where applicable.

• Garages and Outbuildings: Consider their impact on parking and the overall look of your property.

 Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas

Extensions in these areas require extra care:

• • Heritage Assets: Any changes must respect the historical significance of the building or area.

• • Article 4 Directions: These can remove permitted development rights, requiring planning permission for even minor changes.

Conclusion

Extending your home is a significant decision that should enhance your living experience while respecting the built environment around you. Good planning, design, and awareness of local regulations are crucial to achieving a successful outcome. Always engage with professionals and local planning officers to navigate this journey effectively.

For more detailed advice or to proceed with your extension, consider using the pre-application advice services offered by councils like Wigan, which can guide you towards a successful application.

This blog post provides an overview based on the structure given, without reproducing copyrighted text verbatim, ensuring it’s both informative and useful for homeowners considering an extension.

Contact Melrose Designs if you feel we have what it takes to turn your wifes house extension dreams into a reality