Background

Our client sought to extend their home with a single-storey rear extension and a rear dormer to accommodate their growing family's needs. 

Our Approach 

We advised the client that they could potentially utilise their permitted development rights to build a 6m-deep rear extension under the prior approval larger householder route if they could ensure objections from the unextended neighboring property due to considerations of depth, height, and orientation. 

As an alternative, we also reviewed the Council’s planning policy to determine the maximum depth that could realistically be approved if objections arose. 

Outcome 

The client was unable to obtain agreement from the neighboring property. Consequently, the alternative footprint could not provide sufficient internal space, making it unviable compared to the standard 3m single-storey rear extension. To avoid further delays, we submitted a certificate of lawfulness for a 3m extension, which was successfully approved.

Key Takeaways 

The prior approval larger householder route offers an efficient way to achieve deeper rear extensions. However, a realistic assessment of feasibility early in the process is essential to prevent unnecessary setbacks.