Prior Approval for Larger Conservatories

Are you planning to add a significant single-storey extension, such as a conservatory, to the rear of your property? For larger projects, you might need to complete a 'prior approval' application. This is a special check with your local authority before you can begin construction.

You must seek prior approval if your proposed conservatory will extend beyond the original rear wall of your house (we'll clarify "original house" shortly) by these specific measurements:

• If you own a detached house, the extension is more than four metres but no more than eight metres deep.

• For all other types of houses, the extension is more than three metres but no more than six metres deep.

If your project falls within these size categories, you are required to submit an application to your local council. They will then contact your immediate neighbours to gather their feedback regarding your plans.

Should your neighbours express any concerns or formal objections, your local council will carefully evaluate how your proposed conservatory might affect the comfort and general enjoyment of all properties next to yours. Following this detailed assessment, they will then decide whether you can proceed with your building project.

What "Original House" Means

When we talk about the 'original house' (or 'original dwellinghouse'), we are referring to how your home looked when it was initially built. If your property was constructed before 1 July 1948, its 'original' state is defined by how it stood on that specific date.

This definition is important because it means any extensions that previous owners have added to the property are included when you calculate the total size of your proposed development against permitted development rules. You cannot extend beyond their extensions and still call it 'original' for these purposes.