{ "name": "Householder planning facts for London and the Home Counties", "description": "Planning authority, Local Plan, typical decision times, pre-application availability, conservation area and Article 4 notes, Green Belt and flood-risk flags for every council Magna Studio serves, plus the national fees and permitted development limits that apply everywhere in England. Council facts are taken from the corresponding area page and dated; national facts from legislation.", "version": "2026-09", "generatedAt": "2026-09-22T06:42:44.453Z", "licence": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/", "publisher": "https://magnastudio.co.uk", "national": { "feesFrom": "2025-04-01", "fees": { "householderApplication": 528, "lawfulDevelopmentCertificateProposed": 264, "lawfulDevelopmentCertificateExisting": 528, "largerHomeExtensionPriorApproval": 120, "classMaPriorApprovalPerDwelling": 250 }, "statutoryDecisionPeriods": { "householderApplicationWeeks": 8, "lawfulDevelopmentCertificateWeeks": 8, "largerHomeExtensionPriorApprovalDays": 42, "classMaPriorApprovalDays": 56, "nonMaterialAmendmentDays": 28 }, "permittedDevelopment": { "rearExtensionDepthM": { "terracedOrSemi": 3, "detached": 4, "largerHomeExtensionTerracedOrSemi": 6, "largerHomeExtensionDetached": 8 }, "roofVolumeM3": { "terraced": 40, "semiDetachedOrDetached": 50 }, "outbuildingHeightM": { "within2mOfBoundary": 2.5, "dualPitched": 4, "other": 3 } }, "source": "Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 and the Town and Country Planning (Fees) Regulations, as amended; verify before applying." }, "councils": [ { "slug": "barking-and-dagenham", "name": "Barking and Dagenham", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Barking and Dagenham", "planningUrl": "https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/", "localPlan": "Barking and Dagenham Local Plan 2037", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": "Decision times usually sit close to the statutory 8 weeks but can run longer.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Barking and Dagenham has only a small number of conservation areas, centred on Barking Abbey and the town centre and a handful of historic pockets. Inside them, roof extensions are not PD and side or rear extensions face a stricter design test.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "We are not aware of a borough-wide Article 4 direction removing householder PD rights, but the council may have made directions on specific estates or for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). Always confirm on the council's constraints map or with a Lawful Development Certificate before building under PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land along the Thames (Barking Riverside, Thames View, Creekmouth), the River Roding and the Beam River sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Extensions and basements here may need a flood risk assessment. Check the Environment Agency flood map for your postcode.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Becontree estate character", "detail": "The Becontree estate is one of the largest interwar cottage estates in the world, and the council pays close attention to its uniform street frontages. Front porches, cladding, replacement windows and front dormers attract scrutiny; check the council's planning pages or constraints map before assuming permitted development (PD) applies to a front alteration.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Barking and Dagenham has only a small number of conservation areas, centred on Barking Abbey and the town centre and a handful of historic pockets. Inside them, roof extensions are not PD and side or rear extensions face a stricter design test.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Flood risk – Thames, Roding and Beam", "detail": "Land along the Thames (Barking Riverside, Thames View, Creekmouth), the River Roding and the Beam River sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Extensions and basements here may need a flood risk assessment. Check the Environment Agency flood map for your postcode.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Eastbrookend Country Park, The Chase and the Dagenham corridor include Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land, where outbuildings and larger extensions face a much higher bar. We confirm the designation of your plot before drawing.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "We are not aware of a borough-wide Article 4 direction removing householder PD rights, but the council may have made directions on specific estates or for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). Always confirm on the council's constraints map or with a Lawful Development Certificate before building under PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barking-and-dagenham", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barking-and-dagenham/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barking-and-dagenham/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barking-and-dagenham/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barking-and-dagenham/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "barnet", "name": "Barnet", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Barnet", "planningUrl": "https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "localPlan": "Barnet Local Plan", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": "Decision times often exceed the statutory 8 weeks; a written extension of time is common.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Barnet has numerous conservation areas, including Hampstead Garden Suburb, Monken Hadley, Totteridge, Mill Hill, Finchley Church End and Hendon (The Burroughs). Roof extensions are not permitted development in these areas, and the council expects extensions to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Hampstead Garden Suburb is a conservation area with a long-standing Article 4 direction that removes most householder permitted development rights, so almost any external change needs planning permission. The Hampstead Garden Suburb Trust also has to approve alterations under the scheme of management. Budget extra time.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": null, "constraints": [ { "title": "Hampstead Garden Suburb – Article 4 direction and Trust consent", "detail": "Hampstead Garden Suburb is a conservation area with a long-standing Article 4 direction that removes most householder permitted development rights, so almost any external change needs planning permission. The Hampstead Garden Suburb Trust also has to approve alterations under the scheme of management. Budget extra time.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Barnet has numerous conservation areas, including Hampstead Garden Suburb, Monken Hadley, Totteridge, Mill Hill, Finchley Church End and Hendon (The Burroughs). Roof extensions are not permitted development in these areas, and the council expects extensions to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Large tracts of Totteridge, Arkley, Mill Hill and the northern fringe of the borough are Green Belt. Extensions to existing houses are allowed in principle but must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling; outbuildings face a similar test. Check the Local Plan policies map for your plot.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Residential Design Guidance SPD", "detail": "Barnet's Residential Design Guidance SPD sets expectations for extensions: rear extensions generally no deeper than 3.5 m on terraces and 4 m on semis at single storey (subject to the 45-degree test), and roof extensions set within the existing roof form. We design to these figures from the outset.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Other Article 4 directions and HMOs", "detail": "Beyond Hampstead Garden Suburb, Barnet may have Article 4 directions affecting other conservation areas and houses in multiple occupation. We are not certain of the full list, so check the council's constraints map before building under permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.barnet.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "two-storey-extension", "loft-conversion", "rear-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barnet", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barnet/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barnet/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barnet/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barnet/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/barnet/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "bexley", "name": "Bexley", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Bexley", "planningUrl": "https://www.bexley.gov.uk/", "localPlan": "Bexley Local Plan (2023)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": "Decision times are usually close to the statutory 8 weeks, though a formal extension of time is not unusual.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Bexley has a modest number of conservation areas, including Bexley Village (Old Bexley), and several historic centres and estates. Roof extensions lose permitted development rights inside them and side extensions face closer design scrutiny. Check the council's constraints map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bexley.gov.uk/" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "We are not aware of a borough-wide Article 4 direction removing householder permitted development in Bexley, but directions may exist for specific conservation areas or for houses in multiple occupation. Confirm on the council's constraints map before building under PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bexley.gov.uk/" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Erith, Belvedere, Thamesmead, Slade Green and the Crayford Marshes lie in Flood Zones 2 and 3 behind the Thames defences; the River Cray and Shuttle also carry fluvial flood risk. Ground-floor extensions in these zones may need a short flood risk assessment.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Bexley has a modest number of conservation areas, including Bexley Village (Old Bexley), and several historic centres and estates. Roof extensions lose permitted development rights inside them and side extensions face closer design scrutiny. Check the council's constraints map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bexley.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames and Cray flood risk", "detail": "Erith, Belvedere, Thamesmead, Slade Green and the Crayford Marshes lie in Flood Zones 2 and 3 behind the Thames defences; the River Cray and Shuttle also carry fluvial flood risk. Ground-floor extensions in these zones may need a short flood risk assessment.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Foots Cray Meadows, the Cray valley, Lesnes Abbey Woods and Crayford Marshes include Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land. Extensions and outbuildings here must be proportionate and are judged more strictly.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bexley.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "We are not aware of a borough-wide Article 4 direction removing householder permitted development in Bexley, but directions may exist for specific conservation areas or for houses in multiple occupation. Confirm on the council's constraints map before building under PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bexley.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "outbuilding", "two-storey-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bexley", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bexley/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bexley/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bexley/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bexley/outbuilding", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bexley/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "brent", "name": "Brent", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Brent", "planningUrl": "https://www.brent.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "localPlan": "Brent Local Plan 2019–2041", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "Brent offers a paid pre-application service and decision times often run past the statutory 8 weeks, so allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Brent has numerous conservation areas, including Mapesbury, Queen's Park, Kensal Rise, Willesden Green, Mount Stewart and Sudbury Court. Several have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, front boundary walls and sometimes roof works. Check the council's conservation area pages and constraints map for your street.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brent.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Brent has numerous conservation areas, including Mapesbury, Queen's Park, Kensal Rise, Willesden Green, Mount Stewart and Sudbury Court. Several have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, front boundary walls and sometimes roof works. Check the council's conservation area pages and constraints map for your street.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brent.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Parts of Alperton, Stonebridge, Wembley and Neasden along the River Brent, the Grand Union Canal and the Wealdstone Brook sit in Flood Zones 2 and 3 or carry surface-water risk. Ground-floor extensions here may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas and Article 4 directions", "detail": "Brent has numerous conservation areas, including Mapesbury, Queen's Park, Kensal Rise, Willesden Green, Mount Stewart and Sudbury Court. Several have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, front boundary walls and sometimes roof works. Check the council's conservation area pages and constraints map for your street.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brent.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Brent Design Guide (SPD1)", "detail": "Brent's Design Guide SPD sets detailed expectations for extensions and roof alterations, including rear extension depths, the 45-degree test and dormer proportions. Officers apply it closely, so we design to it from the first sketch.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brent.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Flood risk – River Brent and Wealdstone Brook", "detail": "Parts of Alperton, Stonebridge, Wembley and Neasden along the River Brent, the Grand Union Canal and the Wealdstone Brook sit in Flood Zones 2 and 3 or carry surface-water risk. Ground-floor extensions here may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Metropolitan Open Land and Fryent Country Park", "detail": "Fryent Country Park, the Welsh Harp (Brent Reservoir) edges and Barham Park are Metropolitan Open Land or protected open space. Plots backing onto them face closer scrutiny for outbuildings and large extensions.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brent.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "HMO and Class MA Article 4 directions", "detail": "Brent may have Article 4 directions restricting changes to houses in multiple occupation and, in some town centres, commercial-to-residential conversions under Class MA. We are not certain of the current extent, so confirm with the council before relying on prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brent.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "two-storey-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brent", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brent/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brent/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brent/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brent/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "brentwood", "name": "Brentwood", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Brentwood Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.brentwood.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Brentwood Local Plan 2016–2033", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Brentwood has conservation areas covering the town centre around the High Street, parts of Shenfield, Ingatestone, Hutton and Warley, and several village centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brentwood.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": false, "note": null, "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land alongside the River Wid around Ingatestone and Mountnessing, and along the upper Ingrebourne and its tributaries towards Warley and Pilgrims Hatch, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application. Check the government flood map for your address.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Most of the Brentwood district outside the built-up areas of Brentwood, Shenfield, Hutton and Ingatestone is Metropolitan Green Belt, including the villages of Doddinghurst, Kelvedon Hatch, Blackmore and West Horndon. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size and siting. Check the council's constraints map for whether your plot is inside or outside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brentwood.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Brentwood has conservation areas covering the town centre around the High Street, parts of Shenfield, Ingatestone, Hutton and Warley, and several village centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brentwood.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Thorndon Country Park and ancient woodland", "detail": "Thorndon Country Park south of Brentwood, with Weald Country Park to the west, is protected open space with areas of ancient woodland and nature conservation designations. Houses backing onto the parks or onto protected woodland can face additional requirements on siting, trees and lighting; raise it with the council early.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.brentwood.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Wid and Ingrebourne flood risk", "detail": "Land alongside the River Wid around Ingatestone and Mountnessing, and along the upper Ingrebourne and its tributaries towards Warley and Pilgrims Hatch, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application. Check the government flood map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Brentwood High Street, Ingatestone, Shenfield and the villages contain listed houses, inns and churches, with Ingatestone Hall and the chapel ruins in the town centre among the best known. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brentwood", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brentwood/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brentwood/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brentwood/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brentwood/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/brentwood/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "bromley", "name": "Bromley", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Bromley", "planningUrl": "https://www.bromley.gov.uk/", "localPlan": "Bromley Local Plan (2019)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "The council generally offers a paid pre-application service; decisions often run beyond 8 weeks, so allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Bromley has numerous conservation areas, including Chislehurst, Petts Wood, Bickley Park, Beckenham Place, Sundridge Park, Keston and several around Bromley town centre. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be clearly subordinate. Check the council's constraints map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bromley.gov.uk/" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Several Bromley conservation areas, including parts of Chislehurst and Petts Wood, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front-facing alterations, boundary treatments or roof works. The exact restrictions vary by street, so confirm on the council's constraints map before building under PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bromley.gov.uk/" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Ravensbourne, Cray, Beck and Pool River corridors through Beckenham, Shortlands, Bromley and St Mary Cray carry fluvial flood risk. Ground-floor extensions in Flood Zones 2 and 3 may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Bromley has numerous conservation areas, including Chislehurst, Petts Wood, Bickley Park, Beckenham Place, Sundridge Park, Keston and several around Bromley town centre. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be clearly subordinate. Check the council's constraints map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bromley.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Areas of Special Residential Character", "detail": "Bromley designates Areas of Special Residential Character in the Local Plan, where the spaciousness of plots and gaps between houses is protected. Side extensions that close the gap to the boundary and bulky roof additions are resisted in these areas.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bromley.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Roughly half of the borough is Green Belt or Metropolitan Open Land, taking in Keston, Downe, Cudham, Biggin Hill, Chelsfield and Pratts Bottom. Extensions must not be disproportionate to the original house, and outbuildings are judged strictly. We check the designation before drawing.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bromley.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Several Bromley conservation areas, including parts of Chislehurst and Petts Wood, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front-facing alterations, boundary treatments or roof works. The exact restrictions vary by street, so confirm on the council's constraints map before building under PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bromley.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Supplementary Planning Guidance on residential design", "detail": "Bromley's SPG on general design principles and residential design guidance sets out expectations for extension depths, roof alterations and spacing between houses. Officers refer to it alongside the Local Plan.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.bromley.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Flood risk – Ravensbourne, Cray and Beck", "detail": "The River Ravensbourne, Cray, Beck and Pool River corridors through Beckenham, Shortlands, Bromley and St Mary Cray carry fluvial flood risk. Ground-floor extensions in Flood Zones 2 and 3 may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "outbuilding", "side-extension", "two-storey-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bromley", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bromley/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bromley/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bromley/outbuilding", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bromley/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/bromley/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "broxbourne", "name": "Broxbourne", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Borough of Broxbourne", "planningUrl": "https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Broxbourne Local Plan 2018–2033", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Broxbourne's conservation areas include Hoddesdon town centre, Broxbourne, Wormley and parts of Cheshunt, with others in the villages. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "We understand the Borough of Broxbourne has used an Article 4 direction to remove permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4), so HMO conversions normally need planning permission. Check the constraints map for the current extent of the direction.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The Lee Valley Regional Park runs the length of the borough east of the railway, and land alongside the River Lea, the Lee Navigation and the reservoirs sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application, and houses backing onto the park can face additional landscape and ecology requirements.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Land west of the A10, including Goffs Oak and the countryside around Cheshunt and Hoddesdon, is Green Belt, along with much of the Lee Valley to the east. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a strict test on size and siting. Check the council's constraints map for the boundary at your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Lee Valley Regional Park and River Lea flood risk", "detail": "The Lee Valley Regional Park runs the length of the borough east of the railway, and land alongside the River Lea, the Lee Navigation and the reservoirs sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application, and houses backing onto the park can face additional landscape and ecology requirements.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Broxbourne's conservation areas include Hoddesdon town centre, Broxbourne, Wormley and parts of Cheshunt, with others in the villages. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Article 4 direction on HMOs", "detail": "We understand the Borough of Broxbourne has used an Article 4 direction to remove permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4), so HMO conversions normally need planning permission. Check the constraints map for the current extent of the direction.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Hoddesdon High Street, Broxbourne, Wormley and the older parts of Cheshunt and Waltham Cross contain listed houses, inns and churches, including the Eleanor Cross at Waltham Cross. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/broxbourne", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/broxbourne/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/broxbourne/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/broxbourne/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/broxbourne/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/broxbourne/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "camden", "name": "Camden", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Camden", "planningUrl": "https://www.camden.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Camden Local Plan (2017)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 12, "max": 16 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions frequently run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 12–16 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "around 40", "note": "Camden has around 40 conservation areas covering a large share of its housing, including Hampstead, Belsize, Primrose Hill, Bloomsbury, Kentish Town, Fitzjohns/Netherhall and West End Green. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and each area has a published appraisal and management strategy that officers apply closely.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.camden.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Camden has Article 4 directions in a number of conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations and other works, and a direction restricting Class MA commercial-to-residential conversions in the Central Activities Zone and some town centres. Check the council's constraints map before relying on permitted development or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.camden.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": null, "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Camden has around 40 conservation areas covering a large share of its housing, including Hampstead, Belsize, Primrose Hill, Bloomsbury, Kentish Town, Fitzjohns/Netherhall and West End Green. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and each area has a published appraisal and management strategy that officers apply closely.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.camden.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Camden Planning Guidance (CPG)", "detail": "Camden publishes a suite of Camden Planning Guidance documents, including Home Improvements, Design, Amenity and Basements. They set expectations for rear extension depth and height, roof extensions, dormers and the 45-degree test. We design to them from the first sketch.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.camden.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Basements – Local Plan Policy A5", "detail": "Camden's basement policy is one of the strictest in London. Basements are generally limited to one storey, must not extend beyond half the garden, and require a Basement Impact Assessment covering ground conditions, hydrology and structural stability, usually with independent audit. Budget for specialist input.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.camden.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Camden has thousands of listed buildings, concentrated in Bloomsbury, Hampstead, Highgate and Primrose Hill. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external, in addition to planning permission.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Camden has Article 4 directions in a number of conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations and other works, and a direction restricting Class MA commercial-to-residential conversions in the Central Activities Zone and some town centres. Check the council's constraints map before relying on permitted development or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.camden.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Protected views and Hampstead Heath", "detail": "Protected views from Parliament Hill and Kenwood under the London View Management Framework, plus the setting of Hampstead Heath, constrain height and roof additions in Hampstead, Dartmouth Park and Gospel Oak.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.london.gov.uk/programmes-strategies/planning/implementing-london-plan/london-plan-guidance/london-view-management-framework-lvmf", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "wraparound-extension", "loft-conversion", "internal-alterations", "flat-conversion" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/camden", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/camden/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/camden/wraparound-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/camden/loft-conversion" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "croydon", "name": "Croydon", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Croydon", "planningUrl": "https://www.croydon.gov.uk/planning-and-regeneration", "localPlan": "Croydon Local Plan (2018)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "Pre-application advice is available for a fee, and decision times often exceed the statutory 8 weeks; allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Croydon has numerous conservation areas, including the Webb Estate, Chatsworth Road, Church Street, Norwood Grove and Bradmore Green, plus Local Areas of Special Character identified in the Local Plan. Roof extensions are not permitted development in conservation areas and design scrutiny is tighter in both.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.croydon.gov.uk/planning-and-regeneration" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Croydon has Article 4 directions in several conservation areas, including the Webb Estate, removing permitted development for front alterations, boundary treatments and some roof works. Directions may also affect office-to-residential conversions in the town centre. Check the council's constraints map before relying on PD or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.croydon.gov.uk/planning-and-regeneration" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Wandle rises in Croydon and parts of Waddon, Beddington borders and the town centre carry fluvial or surface-water flood risk. Some valley streets in Purley and Kenley also flood after heavy rain. Ground-floor extensions here may need a drainage or flood statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas and Local Areas of Special Character", "detail": "Croydon has numerous conservation areas, including the Webb Estate, Chatsworth Road, Church Street, Norwood Grove and Bradmore Green, plus Local Areas of Special Character identified in the Local Plan. Roof extensions are not permitted development in conservation areas and design scrutiny is tighter in both.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.croydon.gov.uk/planning-and-regeneration", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "The southern third of the borough, including Coulsdon, Kenley, Sanderstead, Selsdon and Addington, contains extensive Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land. Extensions must not be disproportionate to the original house and outbuildings face a strict test.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.croydon.gov.uk/planning-and-regeneration", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Croydon has Article 4 directions in several conservation areas, including the Webb Estate, removing permitted development for front alterations, boundary treatments and some roof works. Directions may also affect office-to-residential conversions in the town centre. Check the council's constraints map before relying on PD or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.croydon.gov.uk/planning-and-regeneration", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Suburban Design Guide withdrawn", "detail": "Croydon's Suburban Design Guide SPD (2019), which encouraged intensification of suburban plots, was revoked in 2022. Officers now assess householder work against the Local Plan and national guidance, with a stronger emphasis on local character.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.croydon.gov.uk/planning-and-regeneration", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Flood risk – Wandle and surface water", "detail": "The River Wandle rises in Croydon and parts of Waddon, Beddington borders and the town centre carry fluvial or surface-water flood risk. Some valley streets in Purley and Kenley also flood after heavy rain. Ground-floor extensions here may need a drainage or flood statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "change-of-use", "side-extension", "two-storey-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/croydon", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/croydon/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/croydon/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/croydon/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/croydon/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "dartford", "name": "Dartford", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Dartford Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.dartford.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Dartford Local Plan 2021–2037", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Dartford has conservation areas covering parts of the town centre around High Street and Holy Trinity, Wilmington, Stone and several village centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.dartford.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": false, "note": null, "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land north of the A206 from Joyce Green and the northern edge of Temple Hill through Stone, Greenhithe and the Swanscombe marshes sits in Flood Zone 3 behind the Thames tidal defences. The area is defended, but ground-floor extensions, basements and any new habitable room at ground level usually need a flood risk assessment and may need raised floor levels or flood-resilient construction. Check the government flood map for your address.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Thames flood zone north of the A206", "detail": "Land north of the A206 from Joyce Green and the northern edge of Temple Hill through Stone, Greenhithe and the Swanscombe marshes sits in Flood Zone 3 behind the Thames tidal defences. The area is defended, but ground-floor extensions, basements and any new habitable room at ground level usually need a flood risk assessment and may need raised floor levels or flood-resilient construction. Check the government flood map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Darent and River Cray flood risk", "detail": "The River Darent runs through Dartford town centre and up the valley through Hawley, Sutton-at-Hone and Darenth, and the River Cray joins it at the borough's western edge. Land alongside both rivers sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, so ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Green Belt south of the town", "detail": "Much of the southern half of the district, including the countryside around Wilmington, Hawley, Darenth, Bean, Southfleet and Longfield, is Metropolitan Green Belt. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size and siting. Check the council's constraints map for whether your plot is inside or outside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.dartford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Dartford has conservation areas covering parts of the town centre around High Street and Holy Trinity, Wilmington, Stone and several village centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.dartford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Ebbsfleet Development Corporation area", "detail": "Within the Ebbsfleet Garden City area, which covers land around Ebbsfleet International, Swanscombe Peninsula, Castle Hill, Eastern Quarry and parts of Northfleet, the Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, not Dartford Borough Council, is the local planning authority and decides applications. Householder rules are the same, but the application goes to the Corporation and many of the new-build homes have permitted development rights removed by condition. We check the boundary and the original planning conditions before advising a route.", "sourceUrl": "https://ebbsfleetdc.org.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Holy Trinity Church and the older buildings of Dartford High Street, the church and cottages at Stone, Wilmington, Darenth and Southfleet, and Sutton-at-Hone contain listed houses and churches. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "outbuilding", "two-storey-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/dartford", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/dartford/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/dartford/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/dartford/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/dartford/outbuilding", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/dartford/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "ealing", "name": "Ealing", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Ealing", "planningUrl": "https://www.ealing.gov.uk/", "localPlan": "Ealing Development Strategy 2026 and Development Management DPD", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions often run past 8 weeks; allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Ealing has numerous conservation areas, including Brentham Garden Suburb, Bedford Park (shared with Hounslow), Ealing Common, Ealing Town Centre, Hanger Hill Garden Estate, Haven Green and Hanwell Village Green. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and each has a management plan officers apply.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.ealing.gov.uk/" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Brentham Garden Suburb, Bedford Park and the Hanger Hill Garden Estate, among others, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for external alterations, so most changes need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your street.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.ealing.gov.uk/" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Brent through Hanwell, Perivale and Greenford, and the Grand Union Canal through Southall and Alperton borders, place some streets in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Ealing has numerous conservation areas, including Brentham Garden Suburb, Bedford Park (shared with Hounslow), Ealing Common, Ealing Town Centre, Hanger Hill Garden Estate, Haven Green and Hanwell Village Green. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and each has a management plan officers apply.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.ealing.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions in garden suburbs and estates", "detail": "Brentham Garden Suburb, Bedford Park and the Hanger Hill Garden Estate, among others, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for external alterations, so most changes need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your street.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.ealing.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Residential Extensions SPG", "detail": "Ealing's long-standing Supplementary Planning Guidance on residential extensions sets expectations for rear extension depth, side extension set-backs, dormer proportions and the 45-degree test. Officers refer to it alongside the Development Management DPD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.ealing.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Flood risk – River Brent and Grand Union Canal", "detail": "The River Brent through Hanwell, Perivale and Greenford, and the Grand Union Canal through Southall and Alperton borders, place some streets in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Northolt, Horsenden Hill, Perivale Park and the Brent River Park include Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land. Plots on their edge face stricter tests for outbuildings and larger extensions.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.ealing.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "HMO Article 4 direction", "detail": "Ealing may operate an Article 4 direction requiring planning permission to convert a house into a small house in multiple occupation (HMO). We are not certain of its current extent, so confirm with the council before letting rooms.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.ealing.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "two-storey-extension", "loft-conversion", "rear-extension", "side-extension", "wraparound-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/ealing", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/ealing/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/ealing/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/ealing/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/ealing/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/ealing/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "enfield", "name": "Enfield", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Enfield", "planningUrl": "https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/planning", "localPlan": "Enfield Local Plan (Core Strategy 2010 and Development Management Document 2014)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "The council offers a paid pre-application service and decisions often run beyond 8 weeks, so allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Enfield has numerous conservation areas, including Enfield Town, Forty Hill, Bush Hill Park, Winchmore Hill Green, Southgate Green, the Lakes Estate and Trent Park. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Several Enfield conservation areas, including Bush Hill Park and the Lakes Estate, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, boundary walls and some roof works. The council may also have a direction on houses in multiple occupation. Check the constraints map before building under PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The eastern edge of the borough along the River Lee and its tributaries (Salmons Brook, Pymmes Brook, Turkey Brook) sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, affecting parts of Edmonton, Ponders End, Enfield Lock and Brimsdown. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Enfield has one of the largest Green Belt areas of any London borough, covering Crews Hill, Botany Bay, Forty Hill, Whitewebbs, Trent Park and the fringes of Enfield Chase. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a strict test.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Lee Valley flood risk", "detail": "The eastern edge of the borough along the River Lee and its tributaries (Salmons Brook, Pymmes Brook, Turkey Brook) sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, affecting parts of Edmonton, Ponders End, Enfield Lock and Brimsdown. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Enfield has numerous conservation areas, including Enfield Town, Forty Hill, Bush Hill Park, Winchmore Hill Green, Southgate Green, the Lakes Estate and Trent Park. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Several Enfield conservation areas, including Bush Hill Park and the Lakes Estate, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, boundary walls and some roof works. The council may also have a direction on houses in multiple occupation. Check the constraints map before building under PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Emerging Enfield Local Plan", "detail": "The council has been preparing a new Enfield Local Plan to 2041, which was at examination during 2024–25. Householder policies in the adopted Development Management Document still apply until the new plan is adopted; we check the current position when we quote.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/enfield", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/enfield/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/enfield/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/enfield/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/enfield/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/enfield/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "epping-forest", "name": "Epping Forest", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Epping Forest District Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/planning-and-building", "localPlan": "Epping Forest District Local Plan 2011–2033", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Epping Forest is a Special Area of Conservation, and the council requires new homes within its zone of influence to mitigate air-quality and recreational-pressure effects, usually through a financial contribution and a habitats assessment. Householder extensions and outbuildings to an existing house are, as we understand it, largely unaffected because they add no new dwelling, but any conversion that creates a new home needs the mitigation, and houses backing onto the Forest can face additional requirements. Check with the council early.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/planning-and-building" }, "article4": { "present": false, "note": null, "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land alongside the River Roding through Chigwell, Loughton, Abridge and Ongar, and alongside the River Lee and the Lee Navigation around Waltham Abbey and Roydon, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Epping Forest Special Area of Conservation", "detail": "Epping Forest is a Special Area of Conservation, and the council requires new homes within its zone of influence to mitigate air-quality and recreational-pressure effects, usually through a financial contribution and a habitats assessment. Householder extensions and outbuildings to an existing house are, as we understand it, largely unaffected because they add no new dwelling, but any conversion that creates a new home needs the mitigation, and houses backing onto the Forest can face additional requirements. Check with the council early.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/planning-and-building", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Most of the district outside the built-up areas of Loughton, Buckhurst Hill, Epping, Waltham Abbey and Ongar is Metropolitan Green Belt, and it also washes over Chigwell Row, Theydon Bois and many villages. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size and siting. Check the council's constraints map for the boundary at your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/planning-and-building", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "The district's conservation areas include Epping High Street, several in Loughton and Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell village and Waltham Abbey town centre, along with many villages such as Theydon Bois, Ongar and Roydon. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/planning-and-building", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Roding and River Lee flood risk", "detail": "Land alongside the River Roding through Chigwell, Loughton, Abridge and Ongar, and alongside the River Lee and the Lee Navigation around Waltham Abbey and Roydon, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Epping High Street, Waltham Abbey, Chigwell village, Ongar and the rural parishes contain many listed houses, inns and churches, including the Abbey Church at Waltham Abbey. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epping-forest", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epping-forest/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epping-forest/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epping-forest/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epping-forest/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epping-forest/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "epsom-and-ewell", "name": "Epsom and Ewell", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Epsom and Ewell Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Epsom and Ewell Core Strategy 2007 (new Local Plan emerging)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Epsom town centre, Ewell Village, Stamford Green and Woodcote are among the borough's conservation areas. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and boundary treatments. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "The council has used, or has consulted on using, Article 4 directions to remove particular permitted development rights, including for converting houses into small houses in multiple occupation and for works in some conservation areas. The position changes over time, so check the council's constraints map and current directions for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The Hogsmill River rises at Ewell and runs through Ewell Village, West Ewell and on towards Kingston, and land alongside it and its tributaries sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions, basements and outbuildings there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "A large share of the borough is Green Belt, including Epsom Common, Epsom Downs, the Hogsmill open space and land around Horton and Langley Vale. Where planning permission is needed, extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size, siting and effect on openness. Check the council's constraints map to see whether your plot is inside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Epsom town centre, Ewell Village, Stamford Green and Woodcote are among the borough's conservation areas. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and boundary treatments. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Hogsmill River flood risk", "detail": "The Hogsmill River rises at Ewell and runs through Ewell Village, West Ewell and on towards Kingston, and land alongside it and its tributaries sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions, basements and outbuildings there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "The council has used, or has consulted on using, Article 4 directions to remove particular permitted development rights, including for converting houses into small houses in multiple occupation and for works in some conservation areas. The position changes over time, so check the council's constraints map and current directions for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Ewell Village, Epsom town centre and the old hospital estate at Horton contain listed houses, cottages, churches and institutional buildings. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "two-storey-extension", "loft-conversion", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epsom-and-ewell", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epsom-and-ewell/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epsom-and-ewell/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epsom-and-ewell/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epsom-and-ewell/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/epsom-and-ewell/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "greenwich", "name": "Greenwich", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Royal Borough of Greenwich", "planningUrl": "https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/", "localPlan": "Royal Greenwich Local Plan – Core Strategy with Detailed Policies (2014)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions often run past 8 weeks; allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Royal Greenwich has numerous conservation areas, including West Greenwich, Blackheath, Blackheath Park, Westcombe Park, Charlton Village, Eltham Palace, the Progress Estate and Woolwich Common. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Several conservation areas, notably the Progress Estate in Eltham and parts of Blackheath, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for external alterations, so most changes need planning permission. The exact scope varies by area; check the council's constraints map for your street.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "The riverside from Greenwich Peninsula through Charlton, Woolwich and Thamesmead lies in Flood Zones 2 and 3 behind the Thames Barrier and river defences. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk assessment.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site", "detail": "Maritime Greenwich is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a buffer zone covering much of Greenwich town centre, West Greenwich and the edge of Blackheath. Alterations within it, including roof works and rear extensions visible from the park or river, face heightened heritage scrutiny.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Royal Greenwich has numerous conservation areas, including West Greenwich, Blackheath, Blackheath Park, Westcombe Park, Charlton Village, Eltham Palace, the Progress Estate and Woolwich Common. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Several conservation areas, notably the Progress Estate in Eltham and parts of Blackheath, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for external alterations, so most changes need planning permission. The exact scope varies by area; check the council's constraints map for your street.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames flood risk", "detail": "The riverside from Greenwich Peninsula through Charlton, Woolwich and Thamesmead lies in Flood Zones 2 and 3 behind the Thames Barrier and river defences. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk assessment.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Metropolitan Open Land and Royal Parks", "detail": "Blackheath, Greenwich Park, Woolwich Common, Oxleas Wood and Shooters Hill are Metropolitan Open Land or Royal Park. Plots on their edge face closer scrutiny for outbuildings and for anything visible from the open space.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Greenwich town centre, Blackheath and Eltham contain a high concentration of listed buildings. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external, alongside planning permission.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "outbuilding", "internal-alterations" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/greenwich", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/greenwich/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/greenwich/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/greenwich/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/greenwich/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "guildford", "name": "Guildford", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Guildford Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.guildford.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Guildford Borough Local Plan: Strategy and Sites 2019 and Development Management Policies 2023", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Guildford town centre, Charlotteville and Onslow Village are conservation areas, and many of the villages, including Shalford, Ripley, Send, East Horsley and Effingham, have designated centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them. Onslow Village is also understood to have an Article 4 direction removing further permitted development rights on the estate. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries and any directions before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.guildford.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Guildford town centre, Charlotteville and Onslow Village are conservation areas, and many of the villages, including Shalford, Ripley, Send, East Horsley and Effingham, have designated centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them. Onslow Village is also understood to have an Article 4 direction removing further permitted development rights on the estate. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries and any directions before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.guildford.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Wey and the Wey Navigation run through Guildford town centre and on through Shalford, Send and Ripley, and land alongside them sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions, basements and outbuildings there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Most of the borough outside Guildford town and the larger villages is Green Belt, including land around Shalford, Send, Ripley, East Horsley and Effingham. Where planning permission is needed, extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size, siting and effect on openness. Check the council's constraints map to see whether your plot is inside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.guildford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Surrey Hills National Landscape", "detail": "The Surrey Hills National Landscape (formerly the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) covers the downs and wooded slopes south and east of the town, including land around Shalford, the Horsleys and Effingham. Officers give great weight to landscape and scenic beauty, so extensions and outbuildings there are judged on scale, materials and visibility as well as on Green Belt policy.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.guildford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas and Article 4 directions", "detail": "Guildford town centre, Charlotteville and Onslow Village are conservation areas, and many of the villages, including Shalford, Ripley, Send, East Horsley and Effingham, have designated centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them. Onslow Village is also understood to have an Article 4 direction removing further permitted development rights on the estate. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries and any directions before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.guildford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area", "detail": "The heathland around Ash and the north-west of the borough forms part of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area. New dwellings within 400 m of the SPA are normally resisted and those within 5 km usually have to contribute to mitigation. Extensions, lofts and garden rooms to an existing house are usually unaffected, but a new dwelling, an annexe or a flat conversion near Ash will need to address the policy.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.guildford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Wey flood risk", "detail": "The River Wey and the Wey Navigation run through Guildford town centre and on through Shalford, Send and Ripley, and land alongside them sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions, basements and outbuildings there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Guildford town centre, Shalford, Ripley, Send, the Horsleys and Effingham contain many listed houses, cottages and churches. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "side-extension", "two-storey-extension", "loft-conversion", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/guildford", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/guildford/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/guildford/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/guildford/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/guildford/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/guildford/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "hackney", "name": "Hackney", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Hackney", "planningUrl": "https://hackney.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Hackney Local Plan 2033 (LP33)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions often run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "around 30", "note": "Hackney has around 30 conservation areas, including De Beauvoir, Clapton Square, Stoke Newington, Clissold Park, Cazenove, Graham Road and Mapledene, and South Shoreditch. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and each area has an appraisal that officers apply to extensions and dormers.", "sourceUrl": "https://hackney.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Hackney has Article 4 directions in several conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations, boundary walls and some roof works, and a direction restricting office-to-residential conversions under Class MA in Shoreditch and other employment areas. Check the council's constraints map before relying on permitted development or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://hackney.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Hackney Wick, Lea Bridge, Upper and Lower Clapton along the River Lee and the Hackney Marshes edge sit in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Hackney has around 30 conservation areas, including De Beauvoir, Clapton Square, Stoke Newington, Clissold Park, Cazenove, Graham Road and Mapledene, and South Shoreditch. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and each area has an appraisal that officers apply to extensions and dormers.", "sourceUrl": "https://hackney.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Hackney has Article 4 directions in several conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations, boundary walls and some roof works, and a direction restricting office-to-residential conversions under Class MA in Shoreditch and other employment areas. Check the council's constraints map before relying on permitted development or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://hackney.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Residential Extensions and Alterations SPD", "detail": "Hackney's Residential Extensions and Alterations SPD sets expectations for rear extension depth and height, roof extensions, dormers and the treatment of terrace rear elevations. Officers refer to it alongside LP33 policies on design and amenity.", "sourceUrl": "https://hackney.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Lee Valley flood risk", "detail": "Hackney Wick, Lea Bridge, Upper and Lower Clapton along the River Lee and the Hackney Marshes edge sit in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Clapton Square, Sutton Place, Stoke Newington Church Street and parts of Shoreditch and De Beauvoir contain a high concentration of listed houses. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "loft-conversion", "rear-extension", "wraparound-extension", "flat-conversion", "internal-alterations" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hackney", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hackney/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hackney/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hackney/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "hammersmith-and-fulham", "name": "Hammersmith and Fulham", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham", "planningUrl": "https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Hammersmith and Fulham Local Plan (2018)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions often run past 8 weeks; allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Hammersmith and Fulham has numerous conservation areas covering much of its Victorian housing, including the Peterborough Estate, Parsons Green, Brackenbury, Brook Green, Ravenscourt and Starch Green, and Hammersmith Mall. Many have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations and other works. Check the council's constraints map before relying on PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Hammersmith and Fulham has numerous conservation areas covering much of its Victorian housing, including the Peterborough Estate, Parsons Green, Brackenbury, Brook Green, Ravenscourt and Starch Green, and Hammersmith Mall. Many have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations and other works. Check the council's constraints map before relying on PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "The Local Plan restricts basements to a single storey beneath the house and limits how far they can extend under the garden, and requires a construction method statement and flood risk and structural assessments. Budget for engineer input and a longer programme.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas and Article 4 directions", "detail": "Hammersmith and Fulham has numerous conservation areas covering much of its Victorian housing, including the Peterborough Estate, Parsons Green, Brackenbury, Brook Green, Ravenscourt and Starch Green, and Hammersmith Mall. Many have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations and other works. Check the council's constraints map before relying on PD.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Basement policy", "detail": "The Local Plan restricts basements to a single storey beneath the house and limits how far they can extend under the garden, and requires a construction method statement and flood risk and structural assessments. Budget for engineer input and a longer programme.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Planning Guidance SPD", "detail": "The council's Planning Guidance SPD sets out expectations for rear extensions, roof extensions, dormers and mansards, including depth and height limits relative to neighbours and the treatment of terrace rear elevations. We design to it from the first sketch.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames flood risk", "detail": "Much of Fulham and the Hammersmith riverside lies in Flood Zones 2 and 3 behind the Thames defences. Basements and ground-floor extensions there need a flood risk assessment, and the council may require flood-resilient construction.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Hammersmith Mall, Brook Green and parts of Fulham contain listed houses and terraces. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration in addition to planning permission.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "wraparound-extension", "internal-alterations", "flat-conversion" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hammersmith-and-fulham", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hammersmith-and-fulham/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hammersmith-and-fulham/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hammersmith-and-fulham/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "haringey", "name": "Haringey", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Haringey", "planningUrl": "https://www.haringey.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "localPlan": "Haringey Local Plan (Strategic Policies 2017 and Development Management DPD 2017)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "The council offers paid pre-application advice and decisions frequently run beyond 8 weeks; allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "around 29", "note": "Haringey has around 29 conservation areas, including Highgate, Muswell Hill, Crouch End, Alexandra Palace and Park, Rookfield, Noel Park, Tower Gardens, Bruce Castle and Tottenham Green. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and Noel Park and Tower Gardens have particularly detailed appraisals covering windows, porches and boundary walls.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.haringey.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Haringey has an Article 4 direction removing permitted development for changing a house (Class C3) into a small house in multiple occupation (Class C4). We understand it applies across the borough, so any new HMO needs a planning application as well as a licence. Check the council's constraints map and licensing pages before buying with an HMO in mind.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.haringey.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Tottenham Hale, Northumberland Park, the Tottenham Marshes edge and land along the Moselle and Pymmes Brooks sit in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Haringey has around 29 conservation areas, including Highgate, Muswell Hill, Crouch End, Alexandra Palace and Park, Rookfield, Noel Park, Tower Gardens, Bruce Castle and Tottenham Green. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and Noel Park and Tower Gardens have particularly detailed appraisals covering windows, porches and boundary walls.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.haringey.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 direction on HMOs", "detail": "Haringey has an Article 4 direction removing permitted development for changing a house (Class C3) into a small house in multiple occupation (Class C4). We understand it applies across the borough, so any new HMO needs a planning application as well as a licence. Check the council's constraints map and licensing pages before buying with an HMO in mind.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.haringey.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions in conservation areas", "detail": "Several conservation areas, including Noel Park, Tower Gardens, Rookfield and parts of Highgate and Muswell Hill, have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, boundary treatments and some roof works. Check the constraints map before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.haringey.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Housing SPD and extensions guidance", "detail": "Haringey's Housing SPD sets out design guidance for rear extensions, roof extensions and dormers, applied alongside the Development Management DPD policies on design and amenity. We check the current guidance when we quote, as the council is preparing a new Local Plan.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.haringey.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Lee Valley flood risk", "detail": "Tottenham Hale, Northumberland Park, the Tottenham Marshes edge and land along the Moselle and Pymmes Brooks sit in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Highgate village, Bruce Castle, Tottenham High Road and Tottenham Green contain concentrations of listed buildings. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "loft-conversion", "rear-extension", "wraparound-extension", "flat-conversion", "change-of-use" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/haringey", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/haringey/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/haringey/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/haringey/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "harrow", "name": "Harrow", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Harrow", "planningUrl": "https://www.harrow.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Harrow Local Plan (Core Strategy 2012 and Development Management Policies 2013)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "The council offers a paid pre-application service and decisions often run beyond 8 weeks, so allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "around 28", "note": "Harrow has around 28 conservation areas, including Harrow on the Hill, Pinner High Street, Pinnerwood Park Estate, Roxeth Hill, Harrow Weald Park, Stanmore Hill and Kerry Avenue. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.harrow.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Pinnerwood Park Estate and several other conservation areas have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, boundary treatments and some roof works. The council has also considered a direction on small HMOs; check the constraints map and current position before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.harrow.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Pinn, Yeading Brook and Wealdstone Brook put parts of Pinner, Eastcote Lane, Wealdstone, Kenton and Headstone in Flood Zones 2 and 3, with surface water flooding elsewhere. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "The north of the borough is Green Belt, including Harrow Weald Common, Stanmore Common, Bentley Priory, Pinner Park Farm and Old Redding, with Metropolitan Open Land at Harrow on the Hill and along the Yeading Brook. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a strict test.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.harrow.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Harrow has around 28 conservation areas, including Harrow on the Hill, Pinner High Street, Pinnerwood Park Estate, Roxeth Hill, Harrow Weald Park, Stanmore Hill and Kerry Avenue. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.harrow.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Pinnerwood Park Estate and several other conservation areas have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, boundary treatments and some roof works. The council has also considered a direction on small HMOs; check the constraints map and current position before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.harrow.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Residential Design Guide SPD", "detail": "Harrow's Residential Design Guide SPD sets out expectations for rear extension depth, the set-back and set-down of two-storey side extensions, dormer size and position, and outbuildings. Officers apply it alongside the Development Management Policies on design and amenity.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.harrow.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Harrow on the Hill, Pinner High Street, Headstone Manor and Bentley Priory contain concentrations of listed buildings, including several medieval and Tudor houses in Pinner. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Local flood risk", "detail": "The River Pinn, Yeading Brook and Wealdstone Brook put parts of Pinner, Eastcote Lane, Wealdstone, Kenton and Headstone in Flood Zones 2 and 3, with surface water flooding elsewhere. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/harrow", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/harrow/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/harrow/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/harrow/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/harrow/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/harrow/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "havering", "name": "Havering", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Havering", "planningUrl": "https://www.havering.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Havering Local Plan 2016–2031 (adopted 2021)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "The council offers paid pre-application advice and decisions often run beyond 8 weeks, so allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Havering's conservation areas include Gidea Park, Havering-atte-Bower, Cranham, Corbets Tey, Rainham Village, North Ockendon, St Andrew's Hornchurch and Langtons. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.havering.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "The Gidea Park garden suburb conservation area has a long-standing Article 4 direction removing permitted development for extensions, roof alterations, windows, porches, boundary walls and hard standings. Almost any external change there needs a planning application. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.havering.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Rainham, Wennington, South Hornchurch and the Beam Park area sit in tidal Flood Zone 3 behind the Thames defences, and the Rivers Rom, Ingrebourne and Beam put parts of Romford, Hornchurch, Harold Wood and Elm Park in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Around half of Havering is Green Belt, covering Havering-atte-Bower, Noak Hill, Harold Hill's northern edge, North Ockendon, Cranham's fringes and the Rainham and Wennington marshes. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a strict test.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.havering.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Gidea Park Article 4 direction", "detail": "The Gidea Park garden suburb conservation area has a long-standing Article 4 direction removing permitted development for extensions, roof alterations, windows, porches, boundary walls and hard standings. Almost any external change there needs a planning application. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.havering.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Havering's conservation areas include Gidea Park, Havering-atte-Bower, Cranham, Corbets Tey, Rainham Village, North Ockendon, St Andrew's Hornchurch and Langtons. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.havering.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames and river flood risk", "detail": "Rainham, Wennington, South Hornchurch and the Beam Park area sit in tidal Flood Zone 3 behind the Thames defences, and the Rivers Rom, Ingrebourne and Beam put parts of Romford, Hornchurch, Harold Wood and Elm Park in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Emerson Park policy area", "detail": "The Local Plan treats Emerson Park as a distinct low-density area where the council resists plot subdivision and over-large extensions that erode the spacious character. Extensions there are judged on plot coverage and gaps between houses as well as the usual amenity tests.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.havering.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Rainham Hall, Upminster Tithe Barn and windmill, Langtons and the village cores of Havering-atte-Bower and North Ockendon contain listed buildings. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "side-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/havering", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/havering/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/havering/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/havering/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/havering/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/havering/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "hemel-hempstead", "name": "Hemel Hempstead", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Dacorum Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.dacorum.gov.uk/home/planning-development", "localPlan": "Dacorum Core Strategy 2013 and Site Allocations 2017 (new Local Plan emerging)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Dacorum's conservation areas include Hemel Hempstead Old Town, Boxmoor, Berkhamsted, Tring and several villages, with a high concentration of listed buildings in the Old Town High Street, Berkhamsted and Tring. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.dacorum.gov.uk/home/planning-development" }, "article4": { "present": false, "note": null, "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land alongside the Grand Union Canal, the River Gade through the Old Town, Gadebridge and Apsley, and the River Bulbourne through Boxmoor and Berkhamsted sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Dacorum's conservation areas include Hemel Hempstead Old Town, Boxmoor, Berkhamsted, Tring and several villages, with a high concentration of listed buildings in the Old Town High Street, Berkhamsted and Tring. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.dacorum.gov.uk/home/planning-development", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "New-town permitted development conditions and covenants", "detail": "Many of the new-town estates built by the Commission for the New Towns were granted planning permission with conditions removing some permitted development rights, and most plots carry restrictive covenants on extensions, fences and outbuildings. Check the original planning permission on the council's register and your title deeds before relying on permitted development; where rights have been removed we apply for planning permission instead.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.dacorum.gov.uk/home/planning-development", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Green Belt surrounds Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted, Tring and Kings Langley and covers most of the countryside between them, including the edges of Leverstock Green, Woodhall Farm and Bovingdon. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size and siting. Check the constraints map for the boundary at your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.dacorum.gov.uk/home/planning-development", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Chilterns National Landscape", "detail": "The Chilterns National Landscape (formerly the Chilterns AONB) covers the west of the district around Berkhamsted, Tring and the Bulbourne valley. Extensions and outbuildings there are assessed for their effect on the landscape, and larger home extension prior approval is more limited. Check the constraints map before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.dacorum.gov.uk/home/planning-development", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Grand Union Canal, River Gade and River Bulbourne flood risk", "detail": "Land alongside the Grand Union Canal, the River Gade through the Old Town, Gadebridge and Apsley, and the River Bulbourne through Boxmoor and Berkhamsted sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "The Old Town High Street, Boxmoor, Berkhamsted, Tring and the village cores contain many listed houses, inns and churches. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "side-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hemel-hempstead", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hemel-hempstead/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hemel-hempstead/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hemel-hempstead/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hemel-hempstead/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hemel-hempstead/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "hillingdon", "name": "Hillingdon", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Hillingdon", "planningUrl": "https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Hillingdon Local Plan (Part 1 2012 and Part 2 2020)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "The council offers paid pre-application advice and decisions often run beyond 8 weeks, so allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "around 30", "note": "Hillingdon has around 30 conservation areas, including Harefield Village, Ruislip Village, Eastcote Village, Ickenham Village, Old Uxbridge and Windsor Street, Harmondsworth Village, Cowley Church and Northwood Frithwood. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Several conservation areas have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows and boundary treatments, and the council has pursued a borough-wide direction on small HMOs. Check the constraints map and the current position before relying on permitted development for a conversion.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Colne, Frays River, River Pinn, Yeading Brook and the Grand Union Canal put parts of West Drayton, Yiewsley, Cowley, Harefield, Uxbridge, Ruislip and Hayes in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Large areas of Hillingdon are Green Belt, including Harefield, the Colne Valley, Ruislip Woods and the fringes of Ickenham and Northwood, and the Heathrow villages of Harmondsworth, Sipson and Longford. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a strict test.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Heathrow safeguarding and noise", "detail": "Homes around Heathrow are affected by aerodrome safeguarding, which limits building height and requires consultation on cranes and on features that attract birds such as ponds and some green roofs; by Public Safety Zones off the runway ends where new habitable floorspace is restricted; and by noise contours where new bedrooms need acoustic glazing and ventilation. We check the safeguarding maps for Harmondsworth, Harlington, Sipson, Longford, Cranford Cross and southern Hayes.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Hillingdon has around 30 conservation areas, including Harefield Village, Ruislip Village, Eastcote Village, Ickenham Village, Old Uxbridge and Windsor Street, Harmondsworth Village, Cowley Church and Northwood Frithwood. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them and extensions are expected to be subordinate and in matching materials.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Several conservation areas have Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows and boundary treatments, and the council has pursued a borough-wide direction on small HMOs. Check the constraints map and the current position before relying on permitted development for a conversion.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "HDAS Residential Extensions SPD", "detail": "Hillingdon's Design and Accessibility Statement (HDAS) on Residential Extensions sets out expectations for rear extension depth, the 1 m set-back of two-storey side extensions, dormer size and position, outbuildings and the 45-degree test. Officers apply it closely alongside the Local Plan Part 2 design policies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "River and canal flood risk", "detail": "The River Colne, Frays River, River Pinn, Yeading Brook and the Grand Union Canal put parts of West Drayton, Yiewsley, Cowley, Harefield, Uxbridge, Ruislip and Hayes in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions there may need a flood risk statement.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "side-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hillingdon", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hillingdon/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hillingdon/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hillingdon/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hillingdon/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hillingdon/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "hounslow", "name": "Hounslow", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Hounslow", "planningUrl": "https://www.hounslow.gov.uk", "localPlan": "Hounslow Local Plan 2015–2030", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Hounslow has numerous conservation areas, concentrated in Chiswick (including Bedford Park, Strand-on-the-Green and Chiswick House), Brentford and Old Isleworth. Roof extensions and side extensions in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map before assuming permitted development rights apply.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hounslow.gov.uk" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Bedford Park has long-standing Article 4 directions removing permitted development rights for external alterations, so even minor changes to windows, roofs and front gardens need permission. Other conservation areas in the borough may also be covered; ask the council or check the constraints map before starting design.", "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land close to the Thames at Chiswick, Brentford and Isleworth falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3. Basements and habitable rooms at ground level may need a flood risk assessment even for a householder application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Hounslow has numerous conservation areas, concentrated in Chiswick (including Bedford Park, Strand-on-the-Green and Chiswick House), Brentford and Old Isleworth. Roof extensions and side extensions in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map before assuming permitted development rights apply.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.hounslow.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Bedford Park has long-standing Article 4 directions removing permitted development rights for external alterations, so even minor changes to windows, roofs and front gardens need permission. Other conservation areas in the borough may also be covered; ask the council or check the constraints map before starting design.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames flood zones", "detail": "Land close to the Thames at Chiswick, Brentford and Isleworth falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3. Basements and habitable rooms at ground level may need a flood risk assessment even for a householder application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Heathrow safeguarding and noise", "detail": "Much of the west of the borough sits under Heathrow flight paths. Extensions with new bedrooms are expected to meet noise insulation standards, and taller structures may need airport safeguarding consultation. This rarely stops a householder scheme but affects glazing and ventilation specifications.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Osterley Park, parts of Hanworth, Cranford and the Duke of Northumberland's River corridor are Green Belt or Metropolitan Open Land. Outbuildings and extensions to houses inside or adjoining these designations are judged more strictly on openness.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "wraparound-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hounslow", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hounslow/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hounslow/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hounslow/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hounslow/wraparound-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/hounslow/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "islington", "name": "Islington", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Islington", "planningUrl": "https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Islington Local Plan 2023", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "around 40", "note": "Around 40 conservation areas cover roughly half of Islington, including Barnsbury, Canonbury, Highbury Fields, Clerkenwell Green, Tufnell Park and Hillrise. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Islington has a Class MA Article 4 direction covering the Central Activities Zone and its town centres, removing the commercial-to-residential prior approval route there, and Article 4 directions in several conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations. We confirm coverage for your address with the council.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": null, "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Around 40 conservation areas cover roughly half of Islington, including Barnsbury, Canonbury, Highbury Fields, Clerkenwell Green, Tufnell Park and Hillrise. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Islington has a Class MA Article 4 direction covering the Central Activities Zone and its town centres, removing the commercial-to-residential prior approval route there, and Article 4 directions in several conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations. We confirm coverage for your address with the council.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Urban Design Guide", "detail": "Islington's Urban Design Guide supplementary planning document sets out detailed expectations for rear extensions, roof extensions, dormers, basements and materials on the borough's terraces. Officers refer to it in almost every householder decision, so we design and check against it before submission.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Basement Development SPD", "detail": "Islington has a Basement Development supplementary planning document limiting basements to a single storey beneath the footprint and part of the garden, and requiring structural, drainage and construction management information. Basements under Barnsbury and Canonbury houses are common but need a fuller application than a rear extension.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.islington.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Barnsbury, Canonbury, Clerkenwell and the Georgian squares contain many listed terraces. Listed houses need listed building consent for almost any alteration, internal or external, and extensions to neighbours are judged on their effect on the setting of the listed terrace.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Flats and maisonettes", "detail": "A large majority of Islington homes are flats, including most converted Georgian and Victorian houses. Flats have no householder permitted development rights, so every extension, roof alteration or outbuilding to a flat needs planning permission, and usually the freeholder's consent too.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "wraparound-extension", "internal-alterations", "change-of-use" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/islington", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/islington/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/islington/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/islington/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "kensington-and-chelsea", "name": "Kensington and Chelsea", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea", "planningUrl": "https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "localPlan": "Kensington and Chelsea Local Plan", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "more than 30", "note": "More than 30 conservation areas cover roughly 70 per cent of Kensington and Chelsea, so almost every house in the borough is inside one. Roof extensions, cladding and most external alterations need planning permission rather than permitted development. The council publishes conservation area appraisals that officers use to judge design.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "The council has an Article 4 direction removing permitted development for basement excavations across the borough, and its Local Plan basement policy limits new basements to a single storey beneath the house and no more than half the garden, with structural, drainage, construction traffic and neighbour-impact information required. Basements are common but tightly controlled.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Chelsea Embankment, Cheyne Walk and the riverside streets fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3, protected by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Basements there need a flood risk assessment and may need flood-resilient design.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "More than 30 conservation areas cover roughly 70 per cent of Kensington and Chelsea, so almost every house in the borough is inside one. Roof extensions, cladding and most external alterations need planning permission rather than permitted development. The council publishes conservation area appraisals that officers use to judge design.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Basement Article 4 direction and basement policy", "detail": "The council has an Article 4 direction removing permitted development for basement excavations across the borough, and its Local Plan basement policy limits new basements to a single storey beneath the house and no more than half the garden, with structural, drainage, construction traffic and neighbour-impact information required. Basements are common but tightly controlled.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Kensington and Chelsea has thousands of listed buildings, including whole terraces and squares in Kensington, Chelsea and Notting Hill. Listed houses need listed building consent for almost any alteration, internal or external, and the setting of listed terraces is considered for extensions to neighbours.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions on external alterations", "detail": "Several conservation areas carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, painting, windows, roofs and boundary treatments. Coverage differs by area, so we check the schedule for your street before recommending any permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames flood zone", "detail": "Chelsea Embankment, Cheyne Walk and the riverside streets fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3, protected by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Basements there need a flood risk assessment and may need flood-resilient design.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Flats and estate freeholders", "detail": "Most homes in the borough are flats, which have no householder permitted development rights, and many houses sit on estates such as the Cadogan Estate where the freeholder's consent is required in addition to planning permission. We identify tenure and freeholder requirements at the outset.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "internal-alterations", "wraparound-extension", "change-of-use" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kensington-and-chelsea", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kensington-and-chelsea/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kensington-and-chelsea/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kensington-and-chelsea/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "kingston-upon-thames", "name": "Kingston upon Thames", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames", "planningUrl": "https://www.kingston.gov.uk", "localPlan": null, "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Kingston has numerous conservation areas, including Kingston Old Town, Surbiton's Southborough and Oakhill areas, Coombe and parts of New Malden. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.kingston.gov.uk" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Some Kingston conservation areas are understood to carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations and boundary treatments. Coverage varies by area, so we confirm with the council before recommending a permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land along the Thames at Kingston and Canbury and along the Hogsmill through Old Malden, Berrylands and Kingston falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms may need a flood risk assessment even for a householder application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Kingston has numerous conservation areas, including Kingston Old Town, Surbiton's Southborough and Oakhill areas, Coombe and parts of New Malden. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.kingston.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames and Hogsmill flood zones", "detail": "Land along the Thames at Kingston and Canbury and along the Hogsmill through Old Malden, Berrylands and Kingston falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms may need a flood risk assessment even for a householder application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Chessington, Hook and the southern edge of the borough include Green Belt, and there is Metropolitan Open Land along the Hogsmill and around Richmond Park. Extensions and outbuildings to houses within or adjoining these areas are judged on openness and are often limited in size.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Some Kingston conservation areas are understood to carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations and boundary treatments. Coverage varies by area, so we confirm with the council before recommending a permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Residential design guidance", "detail": "Kingston publishes design guidance for residential extensions covering depth, height, roof form and the gap between semi-detached houses. Officers refer to it in decisions, so we check our drawings against it before submission.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.kingston.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kingston-upon-thames", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kingston-upon-thames/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kingston-upon-thames/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kingston-upon-thames/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kingston-upon-thames/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/kingston-upon-thames/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "lambeth", "name": "Lambeth", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Lambeth", "planningUrl": "https://www.lambeth.gov.uk", "localPlan": "Lambeth Local Plan 2021", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Lambeth has numerous conservation areas covering much of Kennington, Stockwell, Clapham, Brixton, Herne Hill and Streatham. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lambeth.gov.uk" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Lambeth has Article 4 directions in a number of conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations and boundary treatments, and a Class MA Article 4 covering Waterloo, Vauxhall and other central and town-centre locations that removes the commercial-to-residential prior approval route. We confirm coverage for your address with the council.", "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Waterloo, Vauxhall, Nine Elms and the riverside at Lambeth fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3, protected by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment; surface water flooding is also a recorded issue in parts of Herne Hill and Streatham.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Lambeth has numerous conservation areas covering much of Kennington, Stockwell, Clapham, Brixton, Herne Hill and Streatham. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.lambeth.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Lambeth has Article 4 directions in a number of conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations and boundary treatments, and a Class MA Article 4 covering Waterloo, Vauxhall and other central and town-centre locations that removes the commercial-to-residential prior approval route. We confirm coverage for your address with the council.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames flood zones", "detail": "Waterloo, Vauxhall, Nine Elms and the riverside at Lambeth fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3, protected by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment; surface water flooding is also a recorded issue in parts of Herne Hill and Streatham.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Basement policy", "detail": "Lambeth's Local Plan includes a basement policy that limits depth and garden take and requires structural, drainage and construction method information. Basements under Clapham and Kennington terraces are common but need a fuller application than a rear extension.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings and the Kennington and Clapham set pieces", "detail": "Kennington, Clapham Old Town, Stockwell and the Vauxhall riverside contain many listed Georgian and Victorian houses and terraces. Listed houses need listed building consent for almost any alteration, and the setting of listed terraces is considered for extensions to neighbours.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Clapham Common, Brockwell Park, Streatham Common and Norwood Park are Metropolitan Open Land. Houses fronting or backing onto them are judged on the effect of extensions and outbuildings on openness and setting.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "wraparound-extension", "flat-conversion", "change-of-use" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lambeth", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lambeth/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lambeth/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lambeth/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "lewisham", "name": "Lewisham", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Lewisham", "planningUrl": "https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/planning", "localPlan": null, "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Lewisham has numerous conservation areas, including large ones at Brockley and Blackheath and others in Forest Hill, Sydenham, Lee Manor, Telegraph Hill and Deptford. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "The Brockley conservation area and some others in Lewisham carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, roofs and boundary treatments. Coverage varies by area, so we check the schedule for your street before recommending a permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "The Ravensbourne, Quaggy and Pool rivers run through Catford, Lewisham town centre, Ladywell, Lee and Bellingham, and land along them falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3. The Thames frontage at Deptford is also Flood Zone 3. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Lewisham has numerous conservation areas, including large ones at Brockley and Blackheath and others in Forest Hill, Sydenham, Lee Manor, Telegraph Hill and Deptford. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "The Brockley conservation area and some others in Lewisham carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, roofs and boundary treatments. Coverage varies by area, so we check the schedule for your street before recommending a permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Alterations and Extensions SPD", "detail": "Lewisham publishes a supplementary planning document on alterations and extensions setting out expectations for depth, height, roof form, materials and the design of dormers and side extensions. Officers apply it to householder applications, so we design and check against it before submission.", "sourceUrl": "https://lewisham.gov.uk/myservices/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Ravensbourne, Quaggy and Pool river flood zones", "detail": "The Ravensbourne, Quaggy and Pool rivers run through Catford, Lewisham town centre, Ladywell, Lee and Bellingham, and land along them falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3. The Thames frontage at Deptford is also Flood Zone 3. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings in Blackheath and Deptford", "detail": "Blackheath, Blackheath Park, Deptford High Street and St Paul's Deptford contain many listed Georgian and Victorian buildings. Listed houses need listed building consent for almost any alteration, and extensions to neighbours are judged on their effect on the setting.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Blackheath, Hilly Fields, Beckenham Place Park, Mountsfield Park and the Waterlink Way corridor are Metropolitan Open Land. Houses fronting or backing onto them are judged on the effect of extensions and outbuildings on openness and setting.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "wraparound-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lewisham", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lewisham/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lewisham/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lewisham/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lewisham/wraparound-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/lewisham/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "merton", "name": "Merton", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Merton", "planningUrl": "https://www.merton.gov.uk", "localPlan": "Merton Local Plan", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Merton has numerous conservation areas, concentrated in Wimbledon Village, Wimbledon Park, Merton Park, Mitcham Cricket Green and along the Wandle. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.merton.gov.uk" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Several Merton conservation areas, including Merton Park and parts of Wimbledon, are understood to carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows and boundary treatments. The exact rights removed vary by area, so we confirm with the council before recommending a route.", "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The Wandle runs through Mitcham, Colliers Wood, Merton Abbey and Wandsworth-bound Earlsfield. Land along it falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3 and some areas also have surface water flooding history. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms may need a flood risk assessment.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Merton has numerous conservation areas, concentrated in Wimbledon Village, Wimbledon Park, Merton Park, Mitcham Cricket Green and along the Wandle. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.merton.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Several Merton conservation areas, including Merton Park and parts of Wimbledon, are understood to carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows and boundary treatments. The exact rights removed vary by area, so we confirm with the council before recommending a route.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "River Wandle flood zones", "detail": "The Wandle runs through Mitcham, Colliers Wood, Merton Abbey and Wandsworth-bound Earlsfield. Land along it falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3 and some areas also have surface water flooding history. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms may need a flood risk assessment.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Metropolitan Open Land and Green Belt", "detail": "Wimbledon Common, Wimbledon Park, Mitcham Common, Morden Hall Park and Cannizaro Park are Metropolitan Open Land, and the borough's south-western edge includes Green Belt. Houses backing onto these areas are judged on the effect of extensions and outbuildings on openness.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings and Wimbledon Village character", "detail": "Wimbledon Village, Merton Park and Mitcham Cricket Green contain many listed buildings and locally listed houses. Listed houses need listed building consent for almost any alteration; locally listed houses attract closer design scrutiny.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/merton", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/merton/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/merton/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/merton/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/merton/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/merton/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "newham", "name": "Newham", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Newham", "planningUrl": "https://www.newham.gov.uk/planning-development-conservation", "localPlan": "Newham Local Plan 2018", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "The council offers paid pre-application advice and decisions frequently run beyond 8 weeks; allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Newham has relatively few conservation areas, including the Woodgrange Estate in Forest Gate, Stratford St John's, Three Mills, Sugar House Lane and Durham Road. The Woodgrange Estate also has an Article 4 direction removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, boundary walls and some roof works. Roof extensions are not permitted development in any conservation area.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.newham.gov.uk/planning-development-conservation" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Newham has had a borough-wide Article 4 direction since 2013 removing permitted development for changing a house (Class C3) into a small house in multiple occupation (Class C4). Any new HMO needs a planning application as well as a licence under the council's borough-wide licensing scheme. Check the council's planning and licensing pages for the current rules.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.newham.gov.uk/planning-development-conservation" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Much of southern Newham, including Canning Town, Custom House, Beckton, Silvertown and North Woolwich, and land along the River Lee, Channelsea River and Bow Creek in Stratford and West Ham, sits in Flood Zone 3 behind the Thames defences. Ground-floor extensions and any basement there normally need a flood risk assessment.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Borough-wide Article 4 direction on HMOs", "detail": "Newham has had a borough-wide Article 4 direction since 2013 removing permitted development for changing a house (Class C3) into a small house in multiple occupation (Class C4). Any new HMO needs a planning application as well as a licence under the council's borough-wide licensing scheme. Check the council's planning and licensing pages for the current rules.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.newham.gov.uk/planning-development-conservation", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Conservation areas and the Woodgrange Estate", "detail": "Newham has relatively few conservation areas, including the Woodgrange Estate in Forest Gate, Stratford St John's, Three Mills, Sugar House Lane and Durham Road. The Woodgrange Estate also has an Article 4 direction removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, boundary walls and some roof works. Roof extensions are not permitted development in any conservation area.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.newham.gov.uk/planning-development-conservation", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames and Lee flood risk", "detail": "Much of southern Newham, including Canning Town, Custom House, Beckton, Silvertown and North Woolwich, and land along the River Lee, Channelsea River and Bow Creek in Stratford and West Ham, sits in Flood Zone 3 behind the Thames defences. Ground-floor extensions and any basement there normally need a flood risk assessment.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Tall-building zones and Opportunity Areas", "detail": "Stratford, the Royal Docks and Beckton Riverside, and Canning Town and Custom House are Opportunity Areas where the Local Plan directs tall buildings and large-scale change. Outside those zones the council expects development to respect the two- and three-storey terrace scale. Until December 2024 the London Legacy Development Corporation decided applications around the Olympic Park; we understand those powers have now returned to Newham. Check which authority applies before submitting.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.newham.gov.uk/planning-development-conservation", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Three Mills, Abbey Mills Pumping Station, East Ham Town Hall, St Mary Magdalene in East Ham and All Saints West Ham are among Newham's listed buildings. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "change-of-use", "flat-conversion", "wraparound-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/newham", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/newham/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/newham/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/newham/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "redbridge", "name": "Redbridge", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Redbridge", "planningUrl": "https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/planning-and-building/", "localPlan": "Redbridge Local Plan 2015–2030", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Redbridge's conservation areas are concentrated in Wanstead and Woodford, including Wanstead Village, Woodford Bridge and Monkhams. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/planning-and-building/" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Redbridge has used an Article 4 direction to remove permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4), so HMO conversions normally need planning permission. Check the constraints map for any further directions affecting front alterations or roof works in conservation areas.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/planning-and-building/" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Roding runs the length of the borough from Woodford Bridge through Wanstead and Ilford, and land alongside it sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "The north and east of the borough, including Hainault Forest, Fairlop Waters, Claybury and land around Woodford Bridge, is Green Belt. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a strict test on size and siting.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/planning-and-building/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Redbridge's conservation areas are concentrated in Wanstead and Woodford, including Wanstead Village, Woodford Bridge and Monkhams. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/planning-and-building/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Article 4 direction on HMOs", "detail": "Redbridge has used an Article 4 direction to remove permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4), so HMO conversions normally need planning permission. Check the constraints map for any further directions affecting front alterations or roof works in conservation areas.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/planning-and-building/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Roding flood risk", "detail": "The River Roding runs the length of the borough from Woodford Bridge through Wanstead and Ilford, and land alongside it sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Epping Forest land", "detail": "Wanstead Flats, Wanstead Park and the Forest land in Snaresbrook and Woodford are protected open space within the Epping Forest Special Area of Conservation. Houses backing onto the Forest can face additional requirements; raise it with the council early.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/planning-and-building/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Wanstead, Woodford and the older centres of Ilford and Barkingside contain listed houses and churches. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/redbridge", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/redbridge/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/redbridge/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/redbridge/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/redbridge/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/redbridge/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "reigate-and-banstead", "name": "Reigate and Banstead", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Reigate and Banstead Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Reigate and Banstead Core Strategy 2014 and Development Management Plan 2019", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Reigate town centre, Banstead, Chipstead, Kingswood and Merstham are among the borough's conservation areas. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and boundary treatments. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": false, "note": null, "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Mole and its tributaries run through Horley, Salfords and Sidlow, and the Redhill Brook drains Redhill and Earlswood towards the Mole. Land alongside them sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, so ground-floor extensions, basements and outbuildings there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Most of the borough outside Reigate, Redhill, Banstead and Horley is Green Belt, including land around Kingswood, Chipstead, Merstham, Salfords and the North Downs. Where planning permission is needed, extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size, siting and effect on openness. Check the council's constraints map to see whether your plot is inside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Surrey Hills National Landscape", "detail": "The North Downs above Reigate, including Reigate Hill, Colley Hill and the scarp towards Merstham, fall within the Surrey Hills National Landscape (formerly the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Officers give great weight to landscape and scenic beauty, so extensions and outbuildings there are judged on scale, materials and visibility as well as on Green Belt policy.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Reigate town centre, Banstead, Chipstead, Kingswood and Merstham are among the borough's conservation areas. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and boundary treatments. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Gatwick noise contours", "detail": "Horley and Salfords lie under the approach to Gatwick, and parts of them fall within the airport's published noise contours. New bedrooms in loft conversions and extensions there may need enhanced glazing and ventilation to meet the council's noise policy, and new dwellings face tighter tests. Check the current contours for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Mole and Redhill Brook flood risk", "detail": "The River Mole and its tributaries run through Horley, Salfords and Sidlow, and the Redhill Brook drains Redhill and Earlswood towards the Mole. Land alongside them sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, so ground-floor extensions, basements and outbuildings there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Reigate town centre, Banstead, Chipstead, Merstham and the villages contain many listed houses, cottages and churches. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "two-storey-extension", "loft-conversion", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/reigate-and-banstead", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/reigate-and-banstead/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/reigate-and-banstead/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/reigate-and-banstead/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/reigate-and-banstead/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/reigate-and-banstead/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "richmond-upon-thames", "name": "Richmond upon Thames", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Richmond upon Thames", "planningUrl": "https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/planning", "localPlan": "Richmond upon Thames Local Plan", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "more than 70", "note": "Richmond has more than 70 conservation areas, covering a large share of the borough's housing. Roof extensions, cladding and side extensions in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development, and the council publishes character appraisals that officers use to judge design. Check the constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Many Richmond conservation areas carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front elevations, windows, porches, boundary walls and hardstandings. The exact rights removed differ from area to area, so we check the schedule for your street before recommending a route.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/planning" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Low-lying land at Barnes, Mortlake, Kew, Twickenham riverside, Teddington and Hampton falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms may need a flood risk assessment, and the Thames Policy Area adds design expectations for riverside sites.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Richmond has more than 70 conservation areas, covering a large share of the borough's housing. Roof extensions, cladding and side extensions in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development, and the council publishes character appraisals that officers use to judge design. Check the constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Many Richmond conservation areas carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front elevations, windows, porches, boundary walls and hardstandings. The exact rights removed differ from area to area, so we check the schedule for your street before recommending a route.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "House Extensions and External Alterations SPD", "detail": "The council's supplementary planning document on house extensions and external alterations sets out its expectations for depth, height, subordination, roof form and materials. Officers apply it closely, so our drawings are checked against it before submission.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.richmond.gov.uk/services/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames flood zones", "detail": "Low-lying land at Barnes, Mortlake, Kew, Twickenham riverside, Teddington and Hampton falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms may need a flood risk assessment, and the Thames Policy Area adds design expectations for riverside sites.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Metropolitan Open Land and Royal Parks", "detail": "Richmond Park, Bushy Park, Kew Gardens (a World Heritage Site) and Ham Lands are Metropolitan Open Land or protected landscapes. Houses backing onto them are judged on their effect on openness and setting, and outbuildings near the boundary attract extra scrutiny.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "The borough has a high number of listed buildings, particularly around Richmond Green, Richmond Hill, Petersham, Twickenham riverside and Hampton. Almost any external or internal alteration to a listed house needs listed building consent in addition to planning permission.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "side-extension", "outbuilding", "two-storey-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/richmond-upon-thames", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/richmond-upon-thames/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/richmond-upon-thames/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/richmond-upon-thames/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/richmond-upon-thames/outbuilding", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/richmond-upon-thames/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "sevenoaks", "name": "Sevenoaks", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Sevenoaks District Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Sevenoaks Core Strategy 2011 and Allocations and Development Management Plan 2015", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "around 40", "note": "Sevenoaks has around 40 conservation areas, including Sevenoaks High Street and The Vine, Westerham, Otford, Kemsing, Shoreham, Edenbridge, Riverhead, Chevening and many smaller village centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": false, "note": null, "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The River Darent runs from Westerham through Riverhead, Otford and Shoreham, and the River Eden runs through Edenbridge; land alongside both sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application. Check the government flood map for your address.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Most of the Sevenoaks district outside the built-up areas of Sevenoaks town, Swanley, Westerham, Edenbridge and the larger villages is Metropolitan Green Belt. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size and siting. Check the council's constraints map for whether your plot is inside or outside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Kent Downs National Landscape", "detail": "The Kent Downs National Landscape (formerly the Kent Downs AONB) covers the North Downs across much of the district, including Otford, Kemsing, Shoreham, Westerham and the countryside north of Sevenoaks town. It counts as Article 2(3) land, so permitted development is tighter: side extensions, two-storey rear extensions, roof extensions and the larger home extension route are excluded, outbuildings more than 20 m from the house are limited to 10 m², and external cladding is not PD. Officers also weigh landscape impact and materials more heavily.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Sevenoaks has around 40 conservation areas, including Sevenoaks High Street and The Vine, Westerham, Otford, Kemsing, Shoreham, Edenbridge, Riverhead, Chevening and many smaller village centres. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Knole Park and listed buildings", "detail": "Knole House and its deer park sit on the edge of Sevenoaks town, and the town, Westerham, Otford, Shoreham, Edenbridge and the villages contain a very high concentration of listed houses, cottages and churches. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external, and houses within the setting of Knole or a listed neighbour face closer scrutiny on design.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Darent and River Eden flood risk", "detail": "The River Darent runs from Westerham through Riverhead, Otford and Shoreham, and the River Eden runs through Edenbridge; land alongside both sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application. Check the government flood map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "New Ash Green estate controls", "detail": "New Ash Green is a 1960s Span-style village where the estate layout, materials and shared landscape are part of its character. Alongside planning, private covenants administered through the residents' society are understood to apply to external alterations and extensions; check your title deeds and the society's requirements before designing, as consent may be needed in addition to any planning permission.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "two-storey-extension", "loft-conversion", "outbuilding", "side-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sevenoaks", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sevenoaks/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sevenoaks/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sevenoaks/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sevenoaks/outbuilding", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sevenoaks/side-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "slough", "name": "Slough", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Slough Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.slough.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Slough Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2008 (new Local Plan emerging)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Slough has a small number of conservation areas, including Upton Park, the St Mary's area of Langley and Colnbrook village. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.slough.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Slough is understood to have a borough-wide Article 4 direction removing permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4), so HMO conversions normally need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for any further directions before relying on permitted development or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.slough.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The Jubilee River flood relief channel runs along the borough's southern edge below Chalvey and Upton, and the Colne Brook and River Colne run through Colnbrook and Poyle; land alongside them sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, with smaller watercourses such as the Chalvey Ditch adding local flood risk. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application. Check the government flood map for your address.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "The countryside to the north and west of the built-up area, around Wexham, Britwell and the Burnham edge, and the Colne Valley to the east around Colnbrook and Poyle is Metropolitan Green Belt. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size and siting. Check the council's constraints map for whether your plot is inside or outside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.slough.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Slough has a small number of conservation areas, including Upton Park, the St Mary's area of Langley and Colnbrook village. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.slough.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Heathrow Public Safety Zone and noise contours", "detail": "Parts of Colnbrook, Poyle and Langley lie beneath Heathrow's approach and within its noise contours, and a Public Safety Zone extends from the northern runway towards Colnbrook. Within the noise contours new habitable rooms, including loft bedrooms, may need enhanced sound insulation, and within the Public Safety Zone new dwellings and some intensification are resisted. Check the council's constraints map for whether your house is affected.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.slough.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Article 4 direction on HMOs", "detail": "Slough is understood to have a borough-wide Article 4 direction removing permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4), so HMO conversions normally need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for any further directions before relying on permitted development or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.slough.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Jubilee River and Colne Brook flood risk", "detail": "The Jubilee River flood relief channel runs along the borough's southern edge below Chalvey and Upton, and the Colne Brook and River Colne run through Colnbrook and Poyle; land alongside them sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, with smaller watercourses such as the Chalvey Ditch adding local flood risk. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application. Check the government flood map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Upton Court and St Laurence's Church in Upton, St Mary's Church and the almshouses in Langley, Baylis House and the older buildings of Colnbrook High Street are among Slough's listed buildings. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "change-of-use" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/slough", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/slough/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/slough/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/slough/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/slough/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "southwark", "name": "Southwark", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Southwark", "planningUrl": "https://www.southwark.gov.uk", "localPlan": "Southwark Plan 2022", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Southwark has numerous conservation areas, concentrated in Camberwell, Dulwich, Peckham Rye, Nunhead, Bermondsey Street and Borough. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.southwark.gov.uk" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Southwark has Article 4 directions in several conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations and boundary treatments, and a Class MA Article 4 covering the Central Activities Zone and town centres that removes the commercial-to-residential prior approval route. We confirm coverage for your address with the council.", "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, Borough and the riverside fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3, protected by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Southwark has numerous conservation areas, concentrated in Camberwell, Dulwich, Peckham Rye, Nunhead, Bermondsey Street and Borough. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission rather than permitted development. Check the council's constraints map for your address before assuming PD applies.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.southwark.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Southwark has Article 4 directions in several conservation areas removing permitted development for front alterations and boundary treatments, and a Class MA Article 4 covering the Central Activities Zone and town centres that removes the commercial-to-residential prior approval route. We confirm coverage for your address with the council.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Dulwich Estate Scheme of Management", "detail": "Houses on the Dulwich Estate are subject to a Scheme of Management under which the Estate must approve external alterations, extensions and even paint colours in addition to any planning permission. Estate approval runs on its own timetable and we prepare the drawings for both processes together.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames flood zones", "detail": "Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, Borough and the riverside fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3, protected by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Residential design standards", "detail": "Southwark publishes residential design standards covering room sizes, outlook, daylight, amenity space and the design of extensions. Officers apply them to householder applications and conversions, so we design and check against them before submission.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.southwark.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Camberwell, Dulwich Village, Borough and Bermondsey Street contain many listed buildings needing listed building consent for alterations. Dulwich Park, Peckham Rye, Burgess Park and Southwark Park are Metropolitan Open Land, and houses adjoining them are judged on openness and setting.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "wraparound-extension", "flat-conversion", "change-of-use" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/southwark", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/southwark/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/southwark/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/southwark/wraparound-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "st-albans", "name": "St Albans", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "St Albans City and District Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "St Albans District Local Plan Review 1994 (saved policies) and emerging St Albans Local Plan 2041", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "The St Albans Conservation Area is one of the largest in the country, covering the city centre, St Michael's, Fishpool Street, Holywell Hill and the streets around the Cathedral, with a high concentration of listed buildings. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside it, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and front alterations. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundary before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": false, "note": null, "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land alongside the River Ver through the city, Verulamium Park, Park Street and Redbourn, and the River Colne around London Colney, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "St Albans Conservation Area", "detail": "The St Albans Conservation Area is one of the largest in the country, covering the city centre, St Michael's, Fishpool Street, Holywell Hill and the streets around the Cathedral, with a high concentration of listed buildings. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside it, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and front alterations. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundary before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Areas of archaeological significance", "detail": "Much of the city centre and the land around Verulamium Park is designated as an area of archaeological significance because of Roman and medieval remains. Extensions and basements there may need an archaeological assessment or a watching brief as a condition. Check the constraints map and raise it with the council early.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Metropolitan Green Belt", "detail": "Most of the district outside the built-up areas of St Albans, Harpenden and the villages is Metropolitan Green Belt. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, which officers usually measure against the house as first built, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size and siting. Check the constraints map for the boundary at your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Harpenden conservation areas", "detail": "Harpenden has several conservation areas covering the town centre, the common and surrounding residential streets, and the district also has designated areas in Redbourn, Wheathampstead and other villages. Roof extensions lose permitted development rights inside them. Check the constraints map for boundaries.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Ver and River Colne flood risk", "detail": "Land alongside the River Ver through the city, Verulamium Park, Park Street and Redbourn, and the River Colne around London Colney, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "The city centre, St Michael's, Fishpool Street and the village cores of Redbourn and Wheathampstead contain a very high number of listed buildings. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/st-albans", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/st-albans/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/st-albans/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/st-albans/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/st-albans/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/st-albans/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "sutton", "name": "Sutton", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Sutton", "planningUrl": "https://www.sutton.gov.uk", "localPlan": "Sutton Local Plan 2018", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Sutton has numerous conservation areas, including Carshalton Village, Cheam Village, Sutton Garden Suburb and parts of Wallington and Beddington. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.sutton.gov.uk" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Some Sutton conservation areas, including Sutton Garden Suburb and parts of Carshalton, are understood to carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations and boundary treatments. Coverage varies by area, so we confirm with the council before recommending a permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The Wandle rises at Carshalton Ponds and runs north through Carshalton, Hackbridge and Beddington. Land along it falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3, and basements or new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Sutton has numerous conservation areas, including Carshalton Village, Cheam Village, Sutton Garden Suburb and parts of Wallington and Beddington. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.sutton.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Some Sutton conservation areas, including Sutton Garden Suburb and parts of Carshalton, are understood to carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations and boundary treatments. Coverage varies by area, so we confirm with the council before recommending a permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "River Wandle flood zones", "detail": "The Wandle rises at Carshalton Ponds and runs north through Carshalton, Hackbridge and Beddington. Land along it falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3, and basements or new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "The southern edge of the borough at Little Woodcote, Woodmansterne and Belmont includes Green Belt, and Beddington Park, Roundshaw Downs and other open spaces are Metropolitan Open Land. Extensions and outbuildings to houses adjoining these areas are judged on openness.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Trees and tree preservation orders", "detail": "Sutton's suburban streets and larger plots carry many protected trees. A tree survey and arboricultural method statement are often needed for rear extensions and garden rooms close to a protected tree or in a conservation area.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "loft-conversion", "rear-extension", "outbuilding", "two-storey-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sutton", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sutton/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sutton/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sutton/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sutton/outbuilding", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/sutton/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "tower-hamlets", "name": "Tower Hamlets", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Tower Hamlets", "planningUrl": "https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/planning_and_building_control/planning_and_building_control.aspx", "localPlan": "Tower Hamlets Local Plan 2031", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 14 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions often run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 10–14 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "more than 50", "note": "Tower Hamlets has more than 50 conservation areas, including Tredegar Square, Victoria Park, Driffield Road, Medway, Stepney Green, Fournier Street and Brick Lane, Wapping Pierhead and Narrow Street. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and each area has a character appraisal that officers apply to rear extensions, mansards and dormers.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/planning_and_building_control/planning_and_building_control.aspx" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "The council has Article 4 directions removing office-to-residential permitted development (Class MA) in the City Fringe, Canary Wharf and other employment areas, and directions in several conservation areas limiting front alterations and roof works. Check the council's constraints map before relying on permitted development or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/planning_and_building_control/planning_and_building_control.aspx" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Much of the borough south of Commercial Road and along the River Lea, including Wapping, Limehouse, the Isle of Dogs, Poplar and Blackwall, is Flood Zone 3, defended by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk assessment and a safe refuge above the predicted flood level.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Tower Hamlets has more than 50 conservation areas, including Tredegar Square, Victoria Park, Driffield Road, Medway, Stepney Green, Fournier Street and Brick Lane, Wapping Pierhead and Narrow Street. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and each area has a character appraisal that officers apply to rear extensions, mansards and dormers.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/planning_and_building_control/planning_and_building_control.aspx", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "The council has Article 4 directions removing office-to-residential permitted development (Class MA) in the City Fringe, Canary Wharf and other employment areas, and directions in several conservation areas limiting front alterations and roof works. Check the council's constraints map before relying on permitted development or prior approval.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/lgnl/planning_and_building_control/planning_and_building_control.aspx", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Flats have no permitted development rights", "detail": "Around four in five homes in Tower Hamlets are flats or maisonettes, which have no householder permitted development rights. Any extension, rear infill or roof alteration to a flat needs planning permission, and usually the freeholder's consent under the lease as well.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/permitted-development-rights-for-householders-technical-guidance", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Thames and Lea flood risk", "detail": "Much of the borough south of Commercial Road and along the River Lea, including Wapping, Limehouse, the Isle of Dogs, Poplar and Blackwall, is Flood Zone 3, defended by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk assessment and a safe refuge above the predicted flood level.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Spitalfields, Stepney Green, Tredegar Square and the riverside at Wapping and Limehouse contain a high concentration of listed houses and warehouses. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "flat-conversion", "internal-alterations", "change-of-use" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/tower-hamlets", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/tower-hamlets/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/tower-hamlets/loft-conversion" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "waltham-forest", "name": "Waltham Forest", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Waltham Forest", "planningUrl": "https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "localPlan": "Waltham Forest Local Plan Part 1 (LP1)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 10, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions often run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 10–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Waltham Forest's conservation areas include Walthamstow Village, Bushwood in Leytonstone and Highams Park. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to rear extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Waltham Forest has used an Article 4 direction to remove permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4) across the borough, and some conservation areas have directions removing permitted development for front alterations and roof works. Check the constraints map before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The western edge of the borough along the River Lea, including Lea Bridge, Blackhorse Lane, the Walthamstow Wetlands edge and Marsh Lane in Leyton, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Warner half-houses are flats", "detail": "Thousands of Warner Estate properties across Walthamstow and Leyton are pairs of maisonettes behind a house-like front door. As flats they have no householder permitted development rights, so a rear extension or loft to a Warner property needs planning permission, and the council has design expectations for how the pairs should be altered. Check the council's guidance before designing.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Waltham Forest's conservation areas include Walthamstow Village, Bushwood in Leytonstone and Highams Park. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to rear extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Waltham Forest has used an Article 4 direction to remove permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4) across the borough, and some conservation areas have directions removing permitted development for front alterations and roof works. Check the constraints map before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Epping Forest land and Green Belt", "detail": "Epping Forest land runs down the borough from Chingford through Highams Park to Leyton Flats and Wanstead Flats, and the north of the borough is Green Belt. The Forest is protected open space within the Epping Forest Special Area of Conservation, and houses adjoining it or in the Green Belt face stricter tests on extensions and outbuildings.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.walthamforest.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Lee Valley flood risk", "detail": "The western edge of the borough along the River Lea, including Lea Bridge, Blackhorse Lane, the Walthamstow Wetlands edge and Marsh Lane in Leyton, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Walthamstow Village around St Mary's Church, Vestry House and the Ancient House, Bushwood in Leytonstone and Chingford's old centre contain listed buildings. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "wraparound-extension", "side-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/waltham-forest", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/waltham-forest/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/waltham-forest/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/waltham-forest/wraparound-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/waltham-forest/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/waltham-forest/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "wandsworth", "name": "Wandsworth", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "London Borough of Wandsworth", "planningUrl": "https://www.wandsworth.gov.uk", "localPlan": "Wandsworth Local Plan 2023", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Wandsworth has numerous conservation areas, including large ones covering the streets between Wandsworth and Clapham Commons, Putney, Tooting Bec, Wandsworth Common and Nightingale Lane. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.wandsworth.gov.uk" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "A number of Wandsworth conservation areas carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, porches and boundary treatments. Coverage differs by area, so we check the schedule for your street before recommending a permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Battersea, Nine Elms, Wandsworth Town and Putney riverside fall within Thames Flood Zones 2 and 3, and the Wandle corridor through Earlsfield and Summerstown adds further flood risk. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Wandsworth has numerous conservation areas, including large ones covering the streets between Wandsworth and Clapham Commons, Putney, Tooting Bec, Wandsworth Common and Nightingale Lane. Roof extensions and cladding in these areas need planning permission. Check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.wandsworth.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "A number of Wandsworth conservation areas carry Article 4 directions removing permitted development for front alterations, windows, porches and boundary treatments. Coverage differs by area, so we check the schedule for your street before recommending a permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Housing SPD and extension guidance", "detail": "The council's Housing supplementary planning document sets out its expectations for rear extensions, roof extensions, basements and the conversion of houses to flats, including depth, height and subordination. Officers apply it closely and we design and check against it before submission.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.wandsworth.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames and Wandle flood zones", "detail": "Battersea, Nine Elms, Wandsworth Town and Putney riverside fall within Thames Flood Zones 2 and 3, and the Wandle corridor through Earlsfield and Summerstown adds further flood risk. Basements and new ground-floor habitable rooms there may need a flood risk assessment.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Basement policy", "detail": "Wandsworth's Local Plan includes a basement policy that limits depth and garden take, requires structural and drainage information and considers construction impacts on neighbours. Basements are common in Putney and between the Commons but need a fuller application than a rear extension.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Metropolitan Open Land", "detail": "Wandsworth Common, Clapham Common, Tooting Common, Putney Heath and Wimbledon Park are Metropolitan Open Land. Houses fronting or backing onto them are judged on the effect of extensions and outbuildings on the openness and setting of the common.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "wraparound-extension", "two-storey-extension", "flat-conversion" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/wandsworth", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/wandsworth/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/wandsworth/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/wandsworth/wraparound-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/wandsworth/two-storey-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "watford", "name": "Watford", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Watford Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.watford.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Watford Local Plan 2021–2038", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Watford's conservation areas include Cassiobury, Nascot, Estcourt and Oxhey Village, as well as parts of the town centre and High Street. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and front alterations. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.watford.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "We understand Watford Borough Council has used an Article 4 direction to remove permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4), so HMO conversions normally need planning permission. Check the constraints map for the current extent of the direction and for any further directions affecting conservation areas.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.watford.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "Land alongside the River Colne and the Grand Union Canal on the west and south of the town, including parts of Cassiobury, Holywell and Oxhey, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Watford's conservation areas include Cassiobury, Nascot, Estcourt and Oxhey Village, as well as parts of the town centre and High Street. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and front alterations. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.watford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Article 4 direction on HMOs", "detail": "We understand Watford Borough Council has used an Article 4 direction to remove permitted development for converting a house into a small house in multiple occupation (C3 to C4), so HMO conversions normally need planning permission. Check the constraints map for the current extent of the direction and for any further directions affecting conservation areas.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.watford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Cassiobury Park and Whippendell Woods edges", "detail": "Houses backing onto Cassiobury Park, the Grand Union Canal corridor and the edge of Whippendell Woods sit against protected open space, often with tree preservation orders and some Green Belt land. Officers look closely at rear extensions and outbuildings visible from the park, and work near protected trees needs an arboricultural report. Check the constraints map for Green Belt and TPO boundaries.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.watford.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Colne and Grand Union Canal flood risk", "detail": "Land alongside the River Colne and the Grand Union Canal on the west and south of the town, including parts of Cassiobury, Holywell and Oxhey, sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3. Ground-floor extensions and basements there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "The High Street, St Mary's churchyard, Nascot and the Cassiobury area contain listed houses, almshouses and churches. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "loft-conversion", "two-storey-extension", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/watford", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/watford/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/watford/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/watford/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/watford/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/watford/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "westminster", "name": "Westminster", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "City of Westminster", "planningUrl": "https://www.westminster.gov.uk", "localPlan": "Westminster City Plan 2019–2040", "typicalDecisionWeeks": null, "decisionNote": null, "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": "more than 50", "note": "More than 50 conservation areas cover the great majority of Westminster's housing, including Pimlico, Belgravia, Bayswater, Maida Vale, St John's Wood and Queen's Park. Roof extensions, cladding and most external alterations need planning permission rather than permitted development. The council publishes conservation area audits that officers use to judge design.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.westminster.gov.uk" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Westminster has an Article 4 direction removing permitted development for basement excavations, and its City Plan basement policy limits new basements to a single storey beneath the house and no more than half the garden, with structural, drainage and construction management information required. Basements are common in Pimlico, Belgravia and Maida Vale but tightly controlled.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.westminster.gov.uk" }, "greenBelt": false, "floodRisk": "Pimlico, Millbank, Victoria Embankment and the riverside fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3, protected by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Basements there need a flood risk assessment and may need flood-resilient design.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "More than 50 conservation areas cover the great majority of Westminster's housing, including Pimlico, Belgravia, Bayswater, Maida Vale, St John's Wood and Queen's Park. Roof extensions, cladding and most external alterations need planning permission rather than permitted development. The council publishes conservation area audits that officers use to judge design.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.westminster.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Basement Article 4 direction and basement policy", "detail": "Westminster has an Article 4 direction removing permitted development for basement excavations, and its City Plan basement policy limits new basements to a single storey beneath the house and no more than half the garden, with structural, drainage and construction management information required. Basements are common in Pimlico, Belgravia and Maida Vale but tightly controlled.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.westminster.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Westminster has more listed buildings than any other London borough, including whole terraces and squares in Belgravia, Pimlico, Mayfair and Marylebone. Listed houses need listed building consent for almost any alteration, internal or external, and extensions to neighbours are judged on their effect on the setting of the listed terrace.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Class MA and other Article 4 directions", "detail": "A Class MA Article 4 direction removes the commercial-to-residential prior approval route across the Central Activities Zone, and several conservation areas carry directions removing permitted development for front alterations. Coverage differs by area, so we check the schedule for your address before recommending any permitted development route.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Great Estates and freeholder consent", "detail": "Much of Westminster's housing sits on the Grosvenor, Portman, Howard de Walden, Crown and Church Commissioners estates, whose consent is required for external and often internal alterations in addition to planning permission. Estate design guidance can be stricter than the council's.", "sourceUrl": null, "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" }, { "title": "Thames flood zone", "detail": "Pimlico, Millbank, Victoria Embankment and the riverside fall within Flood Zones 2 and 3, protected by the Thames Barrier and river walls. Basements there need a flood risk assessment and may need flood-resilient design.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-15" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "internal-alterations", "loft-conversion", "change-of-use", "flat-conversion" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/westminster", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/westminster/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/westminster/loft-conversion" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-15" }, { "slug": "windsor-and-maidenhead", "name": "Windsor and Maidenhead", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead", "planningUrl": "https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Borough Local Plan 2013–2033 (adopted 2022)", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "The Royal Borough has conservation areas covering Windsor town centre, Eton, Cookham, Bray, Datchet and Old Windsor among others, with more in Maidenhead, Sunninghill and the villages. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": false, "note": null, "sourceUrl": null }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The Thames runs through Cookham, Maidenhead, Bray, Windsor, Eton, Datchet, Old Windsor and Wraysbury, and large areas alongside it sit in Flood Zones 2 and 3. The Jubilee River scheme is understood to protect Maidenhead, Windsor and Eton from most floods, but Datchet, Wraysbury, Old Windsor and parts of Cookham remain at risk. Ground-floor extensions and basements in the flood zones usually need a flood risk assessment and may need raised floor levels. Check the government flood map for your address.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Most of the Royal Borough outside the built-up areas of Maidenhead, Windsor, Ascot, Sunningdale and the larger villages is Metropolitan Green Belt, including the countryside around Cookham, Bray, Fifield, Old Windsor and Datchet. Extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size and siting. Check the council's constraints map for whether your plot is inside or outside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "The Royal Borough has conservation areas covering Windsor town centre, Eton, Cookham, Bray, Datchet and Old Windsor among others, with more in Maidenhead, Sunninghill and the villages. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions and dormers. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "River Thames flood risk", "detail": "The Thames runs through Cookham, Maidenhead, Bray, Windsor, Eton, Datchet, Old Windsor and Wraysbury, and large areas alongside it sit in Flood Zones 2 and 3. The Jubilee River scheme is understood to protect Maidenhead, Windsor and Eton from most floods, but Datchet, Wraysbury, Old Windsor and parts of Cookham remain at risk. Ground-floor extensions and basements in the flood zones usually need a flood risk assessment and may need raised floor levels. Check the government flood map for your address.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Windsor Great Park and Crown Estate land", "detail": "Windsor Great Park and surrounding Crown Estate land run from Windsor south through Old Windsor towards Ascot and Sunningdale. The Park is a registered historic landscape, and houses on its edge or on Crown Estate freehold can face additional requirements on setting, trees and landlord consent on top of planning. Raise it with the council and the estate early.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Eton High Street, Cookham, Bray, Datchet, Old Windsor and Windsor town centre contain a very high concentration of listed houses, cottages, inns and churches. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external, and houses within the setting of a listed neighbour face closer scrutiny on design.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "rear-extension", "two-storey-extension", "loft-conversion", "outbuilding", "side-extension" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/windsor-and-maidenhead", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/windsor-and-maidenhead/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/windsor-and-maidenhead/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/windsor-and-maidenhead/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/windsor-and-maidenhead/outbuilding", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/windsor-and-maidenhead/side-extension" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" }, { "slug": "woking", "name": "Woking", "region": "London", "planningAuthority": "Woking Borough Council", "planningUrl": "https://www.woking.gov.uk/planning", "localPlan": "Woking Core Strategy 2012 and Site Allocations DPD 2021", "typicalDecisionWeeks": { "min": 8, "max": 12 }, "decisionNote": "Decisions can run past the statutory 8 weeks; allow 8–12 weeks.", "offersPreApplicationAdvice": true, "conservationAreas": { "count": null, "note": "Woking's conservation areas include parts of Horsell, Hook Heath, Byfleet, Pyrford and Brookwood Cemetery. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and boundary treatments. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.woking.gov.uk/planning" }, "article4": { "present": true, "note": "Some areas of the borough have Article 4 directions that remove particular permitted development rights, typically for front alterations, roof works or boundary changes in sensitive residential areas. The extent varies street by street, so check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.woking.gov.uk/planning" }, "greenBelt": true, "floodRisk": "The Basingstoke Canal runs through the middle of the borough, the River Wey forms the eastern edge through Byfleet and Pyrford, and the Bourne and Hoe Stream cross the west and south. Land alongside them sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, so ground-floor extensions and outbuildings there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "constraints": [ { "title": "Green Belt", "detail": "Green Belt surrounds Woking's urban area, taking in land around Horsell Common, Hook Heath, Pyrford, Byfleet, Brookwood and Mayford. Where planning permission is needed, extensions to houses in the Green Belt must not be disproportionate to the original dwelling, and outbuildings face a stricter test on size, siting and effect on openness. Check the council's constraints map to see whether your plot is inside the boundary.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.woking.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area", "detail": "Horsell Common and the heathland to the north and west of the borough form part of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area. New dwellings within 400 m of the SPA are normally resisted and those within 5 km usually have to contribute to mitigation. Extensions, lofts and garden rooms to an existing house are usually unaffected, but a new dwelling, an annexe or a flat conversion will need to address the SPA policy.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.woking.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Conservation areas", "detail": "Woking's conservation areas include parts of Horsell, Hook Heath, Byfleet, Pyrford and Brookwood Cemetery. Roof extensions are not permitted development inside them, and officers apply the character appraisal to extensions, dormers and boundary treatments. Check the council's constraints map for the exact boundaries before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.woking.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Article 4 directions", "detail": "Some areas of the borough have Article 4 directions that remove particular permitted development rights, typically for front alterations, roof works or boundary changes in sensitive residential areas. The extent varies street by street, so check the council's constraints map for your address before relying on permitted development.", "sourceUrl": "https://www.woking.gov.uk/planning", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Basingstoke Canal, River Wey and Bourne flood risk", "detail": "The Basingstoke Canal runs through the middle of the borough, the River Wey forms the eastern edge through Byfleet and Pyrford, and the Bourne and Hoe Stream cross the west and south. Land alongside them sits in Flood Zones 2 and 3, so ground-floor extensions and outbuildings there may need a flood risk statement with the application.", "sourceUrl": "https://flood-map-for-planning.service.gov.uk/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" }, { "title": "Listed buildings", "detail": "Pyrford, Byfleet, Horsell and Old Woking contain listed houses, churches and farm buildings, and Brookwood Cemetery has many listed structures. Listed building consent is needed for almost any alteration, internal or external.", "sourceUrl": "https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/", "verifiedAt": "2026-09-16" } ], "commonProjects": [ "side-extension", "rear-extension", "two-storey-extension", "loft-conversion", "outbuilding" ], "url": "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/woking", "questionPages": [ "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/woking/side-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/woking/rear-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/woking/two-storey-extension", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/woking/loft-conversion", "https://magnastudio.co.uk/areas/woking/outbuilding" ], "lastChecked": "2026-09-16" } ] }