Planning permission means taking consent from a local authority (like Camden, Barnet, Brent Councils, etc.) on a proposed building project and these processes are in place to prevent any unlawful development. Planning permission is usually needed when doing a new build, converting a residential property into multiple residential units, and during an extension or loft conversion if they don’t fall under permitted development category or while carrying out a basement project.

While submitting a planning application, the local authority expects the application to include –

  • Application form
  • Design and Access statement
  • Site plan
  • Block plan
  • Architect plans of the project including elevations of the existing and proposed site
  • Fee of the application

Planning permission fees varies and depends on the type of project undertaken. Currently the planning application fee starts at £206.00 for an extension project. More details on the planning fee can be found on below link.

However, the real costs of getting a planning permission involves professional fees as well – architect fees, survey fees (noise/parking surveys in some instances) and depending on the size of the project costs a minimum of £1,500 to £2,000 for a minor extension project.

It usually takes around 8 weeks to get a planning permission. In some instances, it might take longer depending on the complexity and scale of the project. Once the planning is granted, make sure the planning conditions attached to the consent are carefully investigated – type of materials, etc. that have been given the permission to be used. Any planning permission granted automatically expires after a period of 3 years from the date the permission was granted.

Some of the factors that can affect granting of planning permission are as below –

  • Loss of privacy to neighbours/ overlooking
  • Loss of light
  • Impact on Conservation area
  • Noise
  • Parking
  • Government policies

Neighbours are always consulted during the planning process by the local authorities and decision are made taking all comments and consideration from neighbours into account.

In case a planning permission is not granted, you can resubmit a planning after amending or dealing with the reasons for refusal or appeal to the planning inspectorate.