From the 1^st October 2008, new planning regulations will come into force, which mean that many extensions which have previously required planning permission can now be constructed without the need to apply to the Local Authority. However, some proposals which were previously “permitted development” will now require planning permission, including, for example, all conservatories or rear extensions over 3m in length.

As well as new size limits for extensions and roof alterations, the new regulations prevent householders from installing driveways, parking areas and hard standings of more than 5 square metres in area, in their front gardens, without planning permission, unless they have permeable surfaces. New controls have also been introduced for balconies, verandas and decking.

The Planning Portal provides information relating to the need for planning permission on their web page at http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/.

However, home owners should be aware that the Planning Portal is unable to give specific advice relating to individual properties. For example, it does not contain information on whether or not a property is Listed, located within a Conservation Area or subject to restrictive conditions attached to previous planning permissions.

Therefore, householders who are considering undertaking works to their properties are advised to use the Council’s Permitted Development Enquiry Service which will provide written confirmation of whether or not planning permission is required, which is often required by purchaser’s solicitors. The current fee for this service is £35 and an application form can be downloaded here.

From 6th April 2008 charges apply to all requests for approval of details to discharge conditions attached to planning permissions and requests for confirmation that conditions have been complied with, regardless of when permission was granted.

Requests to discharge conditions should be made on the Standard application form - approval of details reserved by condition       Help file

Requests for confirmation of compliance with conditions should be made in writing or by e-mail to planning@crewe-nantwich.gov.uk. The appropriate fee must be provided with the request.

Discharging Planning Conditions - leaflet to download in .pdf 

Discharging planning conditions - your questions answered

Validation checklists

The Borough Council has adopted Local Validation Checklists for planning applications.    Local Validation Checklists will be used in association with national requirements to assess whether a planning application is valid, i.e. all the necessary information relating to the type of development proposed has been submitted, thus enabling the Local Planning Authority to make an informed decision.     

Local Validation Checklists  

Making the Best Use of Design and Access Statements 

Adopted SPDs

The Borough Council has adopted Supplementary Planning Guidance on Extensions and Householder Development and Development on Backland and Gardens. 

SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING DOCUMENT (SPD)
EXTENSIONS AND HOUSEHOLDER DEVELOPMENT .pdf

SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING DOCUMENT (SPD)
DEVELOPMENT ON BACKLAND AND GARDENS .pdf

Copies of the documents are also available for inspection at the Council Offices at Municipal Buildings, Earle Street, Crewe and Nantwich Office, Beam Street, Nantwich, during their normal office hours.