Planning permission policies in the Borough of Bromley
Have you been considering a loft conversion for your Bromley home? Maybe you’ve already drawn up the plans, made the budget and started planning what the extra room will be used for? However, some plans will require planning permission in order to move to the next step. So, if you’re in Bromley and are wondering how to get started, follow this guide on the planning permission policies in the London Borough of Bromley.
What is the difference between permitted development and planning permission?
Many people get caught out with knowing which it is they need – permitted development or planning permission. The difference is a question of approval – with planning permission the aim is to ask for Bromley council’s permission to carry out the work, whereas permitted development is simply notifying the council that the work will be taking place and adhering to building regulations. From the permitted development process, you will need a letter of lawful development which will allow you to move ahead with your project undisrupted.
Why would my Bromley home need planning permission?
There are two main reasons why your home in the borough of Bromley could require planning permission rather than permitted development. Whether you live in Bromley, Beckenham, Orpington or Bickley, if your upcoming project within Bromley crosses these guidelines, planning application is needed:
Size
If your proposed loft conversion’s roof space exceeds the volume allowed under permitted development (which is 40m² for terraced properties, and 50m² for semi-detached and detached properties) then planning permission must be acquired. The proposed conversion also must not exceed the height of the existing roof.
Location
If your home is a listed building or it falls within a conservation area (of which there are 44 in and around Bromley town centre), there are specific building regulations which must be met. You will need to receive permission for things that other properties in Bromley may not need to.
What is the process of applying for planning permission in Bromley?
To apply for planning permission for your upcoming loft conversion project, you will need to visit the Planning Portal website. Here you will find detailed information about planning permission in the Borough of Bromley. The regulations about planning applications are determined by the Bromley Local Plan, which outlines the rules which your loft conversion will need to adhere to. By going through the Planning Portal, your planning permission will take around 8-12 weeks to be approved, providing everything runs smoothly. That’s why it’s a good idea to get your application in as soon as possible, ensuring your project can get started quickly.
Is there an easy way?
If you’re looking for an easy way to gain planning permission or permitted development for your Bromley home’s conversion, leave it to the professionals. Doing the process yourself can become tricky, as over half of the Green Belt falls within London’s main three boroughs, of which Bromley is one. Gaining planning permission within the Green Belt can be difficult, as they demand protection of the environment and the local community.
That’s why at Touchstone Lofts, we handle the acquisition of planning permission for you. We have successfully gained planning permission for 98% of clients first time, from areas around Bromley Common to the surrounding areas of West Wickham and more. If you’d like an expert company to take the stress out of your hands, contact us on 0800 881 8194.