Some larger single-storey rear extensions in England may be considered under a permitted development process that requires prior approval from the local planning authority. This is commonly called the larger home extension or neighbour consultation scheme.
Is prior approval the same as a householder planning application?
No. Prior approval is a specific process within permitted development legislation. The proposal must first fall within the relevant permitted development class and meet its limitations and conditions. The authority then considers the matters specified by the legislation, which include the impact on adjoining premises in the larger home extension process.
What is the neighbour consultation process?
The local planning authority notifies adjoining neighbours and gives them an opportunity to make representations. If objections are received within the consultation period, the authority considers the impact on the adjoining premises in accordance with the statutory process. The authority may decide that prior approval is required or that it is not required, depending on the case.
What drawings and information are needed?
The application needs enough information for the authority to understand the property and proposal. This usually includes a location plan, existing and proposed plans and elevations, dimensions and details of the relationship with neighbouring properties. The exact requirements should be checked with the relevant local authority.
What happens after the authority’s decision?
You must follow the relevant permitted development conditions and any requirements attached to the prior approval decision. A decision that prior approval is not required is not a general approval for different drawings or a larger scheme. The work should be carried out in accordance with the proposal submitted.
Do building regulations still apply?
Yes. Planning and prior approval are separate from building regulations. Building regulations may apply to the extension regardless of the planning route. Structural calculations and structural design, where needed, must be provided separately by a suitably qualified structural engineer.
How Robert Blake Designs can help
I prepare measured surveys and planning drawings for larger home extension prior approval applications in Harlow, Essex and nearby Hertfordshire. I can help set out the existing and proposed arrangement clearly for submission to the local planning authority.
Important: Not every rear extension qualifies for this route. Eligibility depends on the property, dimensions, planning history and the current legislation. Check the specific proposal before starting work.
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