Permitted Development Loft Conversions In Manchester

Click here to call us now on 0161 410 8180

Permitted Development in Manchester: Essential Information for Homeowners.
The UK government has introduced a variety of planning regulations designed to streamline the development process. These changes allow homeowners and businesses to carry out certain types of construction without the need for a full planning application, a system known as Permitted Development (PD). In cities like Manchester, where space is limited and development demand is high, PD rights can be an invaluable tool for property owners looking to improve or expand their premises.
So what Is Permitted Development?
Permitted Development rights grant property owners the ability to carry out specific building works or changes of use without requiring full planning permission. These rights are set out in the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015, and they apply throughout England. However, it’s important to note that there are limitations and restrictions depending on the property’s location, its type, and the nature of the proposed development.
Common Types of Permitted Development in Manchester
As one of the UK’s most vibrant cities with a rapidly growing population and property market, Manchester is a prime example of where Permitted Development rights are frequently utilised. 
1. Extensions and Loft Conversions
Extensions are among the most popular uses of PD rights. In Manchester, homeowners can extend their properties without needing full planning approval, provided the extension meets certain criteria. For instance, an extension on a terraced house cannot extend more than 3 meters from the rear, while a detached home can extend up to 4 meters. Roof extensions, including loft conversions, are also covered under PD, as long as the height does not exceed the existing roofline and the materials used are in keeping with the original design.
Note: Properties in conservation areas, listed buildings, or areas of special interest may face stricter restrictions.
2. Change of Use
In a city like Manchester, where the urban landscape is constantly evolving, businesses can take advantage of PD rights to change the use of a property. For example, converting an office or retail space into residential units may not require full planning permission under Class O Permitted Development Rights. Similarly, agricultural buildings can be converted into homes, provided the structure meets certain conditions related to its integrity and volume.
3. Outbuildings
Homeowners in Manchester can also build various outbuildings, such as garden sheds, garages, or home offices, under PD rights. The outbuilding must not exceed 50% of the total garden area, and height restrictions apply—usually, buildings must not exceed 2.5 meters in height within 2 meters of the boundary.
4. Roof Terraces and Balconies
With outdoor space at a premium in Manchester’s urban environment, roof terraces and balconies have become a popular addition to homes. PD rights allow for the construction of balconies and terraces, provided they do not extend beyond the height of the building or create significant visual disruption for neighbours.
5. Solar Panels
To support sustainability, PD rights also allow for the installation of solar panels on roofs, as long as they do not protrude excessively from the roofline. This is especially beneficial in cities like Manchester, where urban sustainability initiatives are a priority.
Restrictions and Limitations of Permitted Development
While Permitted Development rights offer flexibility, they come with specific restrictions that property owners must adhere to. These include:

1. Size Limitations: Certain developments, such as extensions and outbuildings, must adhere to strict size limits. Exceeding these limits requires full planning permission.
2. Design and Appearance: Developments must be sympathetic to the existing property and the surrounding area. For example, extensions should match the design of the original building, and the materials used must blend with the local architecture.
3. Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas: Properties in conservation areas or those that are listed buildings have stricter PD rights. Any changes that affect the building’s character or the area’s appearance will likely require planning permission.
4. Neighbour Consultation: Some developments, like rear extensions, may trigger a Neighbour Consultation Scheme, where local authorities must inform nearby residents and allow them to raise objections.
5. Planning Conditions: Local councils, especially in busy urban areas like Manchester, may impose additional conditions on specific developments to protect local infrastructure and the community.

Benefits of Permitted Development in Manchester
Utilising Permitted Development rights offers a range of advantages for property owners in Manchester:

1. Speed and Cost-Efficiency: By bypassing the need for full planning permission, developers can save both time and money, speeding up the completion of projects.
2. Increased Property Value: Developments like home extensions, loft conversions, and changes of use can add significant value to a property, increasing its appeal to potential buyers.
3. Flexibility in Design: Permitted Development offers property owners more freedom to make changes without adhering to a rigid design process, providing greater flexibility in how a property can be modified. ​
   

Arrange a Quote & Free Cad loft design with Rafter Loft Conversions: To explore your loft conversion simply fill out our contact form, or call us at 0161 410 8180.