You will need planning permission if you want to:

• build something new
• make a major change to your building e.g. build an extension
• change the use of your building

In some circumstances, permitted development rights allow certain types of work to take place without the need for planning permission, although these do not always apply in National Parks. The Planning Portal website contains excellent guidance so you can quickly find out whether you need planning permission for yourself.

As the owner of the property or land in question you are responsible for complying with the relevant planning rules. If you don’t comply you will be liable for any remedial action you have to take (which could go as far as demolition and/or restoration).

For more information on building control please visit LABC Front Door | Home improvements & building regulations advice for homeowners and builders. LABC is a not-for-profit membership organisation that represents all local authority building control teams in England and Wales (with around 3,800 members in their national network). Their local teams will work with you to help you comply with the building regulations.

Planning Advice

As a small team there is always a high demand on our time and resources. Our Planning Advice Service is aimed at larger scale proposals that may have a significant impact or where pre-application discussion can have a beneficial impact on shaping development proposals. A small fee will be charged to process enquiries.

Unfortunately, we are not able to deal with enquiries for Minor and Householder development or speculative enquiries from prospective purchasers. 

Our  web pages have the answers to many simple questions  – FAQ page. Please familiarise yourself with this information before contacting us.

Our switchboard remains open.  If you need to speak to us please call between the hours of 10-12 & 2-4 daily; if you call outside of these times we may not be able to answer your call. If your call is not answered please leave an message and someone will get back to you within 2 working days. As much detail as possible will allow us to get the most appropriate person to call you back.