New guidelines for loft conversions

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by Kay Murchie

Homeowners wishing to carry out a loft conversion can look forward to new planning laws. The planning white paper, published earlier this year, gave the go-ahead for larger extensions at ground level, such as kitchens and conservatories, without planning permission.

The Planning Reform Bill which was published earlier this week allows people to build a loft extension within 20cms of the eaves without having to ask for planning permission.

The Bill will make it simpler for homeowners to transform their properties without planning permission but it actually tightens the rules on loft conversion compared to the regulations in force currently.

In the future, applications for loft conversions will be decided based on their position on the roof, rather than their size.

Currently, planning permission is only required for loft extensions over 50 cubic metres in a detached house or 40 cubic metres in a terraced house. Smaller conversions do not require planning permission.

The proposals in the white paper would have meant more loft conversions required planning permission but these proposals are now being softened in the bill.

Housing Minister, Yvette Cooper, said when the family increases, many feel the only option available is to move outwards or upwards. By reducing the planning red tape, we are making home improvements such as loft conversions and adding a conservatory a realistic choice.