Advice Center

Advice Center, Planning Permission

How To Get Planning Permission On A Grade 2 Listed Building

15th November 20210

Firstly, getting planning permission for a grade 2 listed building isn’t as straightforward as it is for a regular house. And this blog will help advise you on the best way to achieve planning permission.  

What makes a grade 2 listed building?  

A grade 2 listed building is defined as a building or structure that is of special interest. Warranting every effort to preserve it. In addition, grade 2 is a classification that can be applied to a wide variety of buildings and other structures. In a range of ages, styles, and locations.  

Will I need listed building consent?  

You will need listed building consent if your project requires all works of demolition, alteration, or extension. That affects its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest. Unlike other forms of planning permission, the listed building consent is free of charge.  

Here are a couple of tips to getting planning approved –  

  • Research the area. If you discover another developed listed building in your area there is a higher chance that your planning permission might get approved. If you find any, I would advise checking the council planning portal and see what architect worked on the project.  
  • Choose your architect wisely – architects play a major role when it comes designing your project and getting the planning permission.  and choosing an architect with a good knowledge and understanding of listed buildings is really important.  
  • In your plans, you should plan to use the same materials and design elements that were used originally to construct the existing building. This way the new design will not stand out. Then there’s a higher chance of getting planning approved.  

If you carry out work without listed building consent it is a criminal offense. So, it is important that you follow the rules and go through all of the correct applications.  

How long does it take to get planning permission on a grade 2 listed building?  

Local authorities say they aim to return a decision within 8 – 13 weeks. However, they may ask for an extension on the permission if they are busy. 

What are the Differences Between Grade I and II Listed Buildings? - Concrete Renovations

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Everything you need to know about Brownfield land

11th November 20210

Firstly, have you ever heard the term brownfield and wondered what it meant? Carry on reading to find out everything you need to know.  

What is brownfield land?  

Brownfield land is previously developed land that is not currently in use that may be potentially contaminated. The term is also used to describe land previously used for industrial or commercial purposes with known or suspected pollution. This includes soil contamination due to hazardous waste. 

Why should you use brownfield land?  

Because brownfields are previously developed and have been used for industrial, commercial, the land is now vacant. By reusing this land, you are leaving the green open spaces alone, which is better for the environment.  

Redevelopment of brownfield sites at the top of the UK development strategy. It not only cleans up the environmental health hazards, it helps with the cleanliness of the city. in addition, it also encourages restoring damages in the community. With an estimated need to build 300,000 new homes per year, brownfield sites could be the answer to the UK’s housing shortage.  

Renovating brownfield land can breathe new life into areas most in need. It is the building’s equivalent of recycling. However, it is vital that we use the land wisely, prioritising brownfields and protecting Greenfields.   

What is a greenfield and why it’s important –  

Firstly, greenfield land is a land that has not yet been built on. They are usually open fields, kept off-limits by the general public by a private or government entity. The idea of the names was that the vibrant untouched land will be green, and the developed land will look brown.  

The Advantage and disadvantages of brownfield sites –  

 For example, advantages:

  • More likely to get planning permission  
  • Stop city expansion as its already in the city  
  • Building on brownfields are better for the environment 
  • Cheaper because you don’t have to put road access and drainage in  

For example disadvantages:

  • Have to clear or destroy what the land was originally used for 
  • Buying land is expensive  
  • Less space for gardens  
  • Don’t have much choice on what to build 
  • Decontamination costs can be expensive  

Planning permission –  

The new policy announced by the government will see automatic planning permission granted on brownfield sites in an attempt to raise the productivity of the economy.  

Finally, the annual state of brownfield report shows that there is enough suitable brownfield land available in England for more than 1 million homes across over 18,000 sites.  

Enough Brownfield land for one million homes – Friends of the Peak District

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A Full Beginner’s Guide To A Heritage Impact Assessment

4th November 20210

Firstly, if you are thinking of buying a listed building or moving into a conservation area, and are thinking of making external changes to your home, this blog is for you.  

Altering or extending a listed building isn’t like changing any other type of structure. The level of information about the existing property, and what you propose to change about it is very different from a standard planning application. One thing you need to supply is a Heritage impact statement.  

What is a heritage impact assessment?  

A heritage impact assessment (HIA)is a document that outlines the historic or archaeological significance of a building or landscape within its wider setting. In addition, it includes an outline of any proposed works. Also, an assessment of their impact on the building or landscape, and a mitigation strategy.  

For example, The document considers the:  

  • The cultural heritage of the place 
  • The nature of proposed development 
  • The likely impact of that development on the significance of the place.  

Understanding the significance of a historic building complex or area and the possible impact of the proposed scheme on this sign is the key to good conservation practice. In addition, good information, available from the outset, can speed up the processing of applications. It can also reduce costs and lead to a better overall design.   

Why do you need a heritage impact assessment? 

You need to submit a heritage statement when you are proposing works that could affect a heritage asset in some way.   

A heritage impact assessment is needed for an application that affects a heritage asset. For instance, this would be needed for: 

  •  listed building consent applications 
  • Planning permission applications for sites within the setting of a listed building 
  • Building or developing in conservation areas 
  • Planning permission applications for sites within the scheduled ancient monument 
  • Planning permission applications for sites within registered parks and gardens 
  • Advertising consent applications on listed buildings or buildings in conservation areas. 

How much does the heritage assessment cost?  

Finally, depending on the simplicity or complexity of the proposed development. An assessment could be anywhere between, a £220 single-page letter of opinion. Or a full-blown £22,000 report.  

How the Heritage Impact Assessment process protects historic sites | Planning, BIM & Construction Today

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Interior Design Vs An Interior Architect: Understanding The Differences

2nd November 20210

interior architecture is often confused with architecture, interior design, and interior decoration. For a considerable amount of time, the debate as to the difference between the terms ‘Interior Designer’ and ‘Architect’ has continued to gather momentum. So, find out what the differences between an interior designer and an interior architect are.

What is the difference between an interior architect and an interior designer?

An interior designer focuses on the actual furnishings and decoration of the interior. Whereas, an interior architect designs building interiors and space planning.

What does an interior architect do?

The role of an interior architect is that they “blend art and science together”. They must take into account the functionality, safety, and appearance of the building. This takes a lot of skill and careful consideration throughout the design process.

Architectural Drawing 2 Result | Interior architecture design, Interior design sketches, Interior design renderings
interior design drawing

What does an interior designer do?

Generally, interior designers will work with you to design your space to suit your style, budget, and brief. Sometimes the designer will also purchase and install the furniture for you.

What are the differences between the two? There are many similarities between the roles of interior architect and interior designer. However, there are also some differences between the two jobs:

  • You need a license to become an architect. – One of the or differences is that all architects must have a license to call themselves architects and to practice architecture.
  • Interior design is more about aesthetic. – This profession focuses on space planning, creating cohesive and aesthetically pleasing designs for home interior and businesses.
  • Interior architects and structural renovations. – The interior architects will design the structure and get involved on a more technical level. They also work with builders, contractors, and technicians.

Work environment –

Interior architects usually divide their time between working in offices and working on construction sites. When in the office, they meet with clients to discuss projects, use computers to make plans, and develop budgets and timelines for projects.

They may also meet with other architects, engineers, interior designers, and construction managers to create more complex projects.

Interior designers also divide their time between working in offices and traveling for work. Then they are in the office, they usually meet with clients, research materials and décor options, and use software to create designs.

When they travel, they may meet with vendors to look for or retrieve materials, or they might go to client sites, where they carry out their design plans.

Interior Design Basics: 5 Interior Design Tips for Beginners - 2021 - MasterClass

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Looking To Become An Architect? Here’s What You Need To Know

28th October 20210

What do you do as an architect?  

An architect is a skilled professional who plans and designs buildings and usually plays a key role in their construction. Architects are trained in the art and science of building design. Since they’re responsible for the safety of their building’s occupants, architects must be professionally licensed. 

Is being an architect a good career?   

Architects are highly respected in society. Due to their creative nature and attention to detail, they are considered a combination of arts and intelligence.  

Is studying architecture hard?  

You may have heard that architecture is a challenging subject to study, which might be daunting if you are thinking of perusing a career in it.  

Architecture is more difficult than many degrees as it involves thinking creatively and technically. It is also a very time-intensive course with an average workload of 36.7 hours per week. 

The different ways to get into this role –  

You can get into this job through:  

  • University courses 
  • An apprenticeship  
  • Working towards the role  

University –  

For example, you’ll need to complete:

  • A degree recognised by the architect’s registration board (ARB) 
  • A year of practical work experience 
  • A further 2 years full time university course like BArch, Diploma, MArch 
  • A year of practical training 
  • A final qualifying exam 

Course providers will want to see a portfolio of your drawings, hand-drawn sketches, photos, and models. So prepare when you are getting interviewed for degree courses.  

Apprenticeship –  

In particular, you can get into this role through an architect degree apprenticeship. This usually takes 48 months to complete, with a mix of workplace learning and academic study at an approved university. In addition, you’ll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) AND A levels, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.  

Work –  

If you’re already working at a high level in an architectural practice but cannot study full time, you could qualify through RIBA Studio.

You’ll need to be registered with the ARB. Furthermore, you can register here:

https://architects-register.org.uk/

How much do architects earn?  

According to the RIBA jobs salary 2020, the salaries of registered architects in the Uk range from £21,000 to £80,000 a year. In addition, the average mid-career salary is somewhere around £40,000 a year.  

Although, we see that many architects actually earn very little, considering the work that they do and the responsibilities that they carry.  

Is being an architect worth it? 

The short answer is yes, it’s a creative, diverse, and ever-changing subject and profession that provides a huge array of opportunities and avenues to explore. Architecture is not easy, but if you dedicate yourself to it and are passionate about the subject it can be very fun.   

B.Arch Degree Course Syllabus,Eligibility | Education After 12th
an architect in work

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How Long Does Planning Permission Last? Everything You Need To Know

26th October 20210

When does planning permission expire?  

Normally, planning permission is valid for 3 years from the time the local authority grants it. This means you have 3 years to start construction work on the site. 

History –

Before 1968, there was no limit on the duration of permissions. Between 1968 and 2009, the duration of the permission was set out in the conditions. It was often limited to 5 years within which the construction had to begin. Although it was sometimes possible to extend this.

How can you stop it expiring? 

In order to stop planning expiring on-site, you can submit a planning renewal application. You can re-submit the original planning application, at one-quarter of the original fee price. Just like the original planning application, the renewal will last 3 years.  

How Long Does Planning Permission Last? [2021 Update] | Urbanist Architecture - London Architects

Types of planning permission –  

There are two types of planning permission: outline planning and full planning permission. It is advisable to check with your local authority to determine what type of permission is required for your development.  

Outline planning permission –  

Outline permission is used for bigger projects. You’re basically asking the local authority to agree to the overall idea of the scheme. And then you put in a separate application covering the details: 

  • Outline application with all matters reserved 
  • Outline application with some matters reserved  

Full planning permission –  

Full permission is normally required for change of use developments in conservation areas. And for developments that affect listed buildings. It also applies to industrial and commercial developments. 

What if the building takes longer than you planned?  

You only need to start building within the 3-year limit, you don’t need to finish the project within that timeframe. You must have made some kind of visible first step, to count as started.  

However, there is a criterion you must follow to show the first steps of the project. You must start your build in the right place and you must show you have completed more than the bare minimum.  

Planning Consultants Leigh - MPD Built Environment Consultants

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Important Things To Know About The Party Wall Process

22nd October 20210

What is a party wall?  

A party wall is a dividing partition between two adjoining buildings that is shared by the occupants of each residence or business.  

The party wall act –  

The party wall act 1996 applies to houses in England and Wales and was devised to prevent building work that could compromise the structural integrity. The act can be used to stop disputes between neighbours and to help resolve them if they should arise.  

Overview –  

You must tell your neighbours if you want to carry out any building work near or on your shared property boundary.  

Party walls stand on the land of 2 or more owners and either:  

  • Form part of a building  
  • Don’t form part of a building, such as a garden wall  

Walls on one owner’s land used by other owners to separate their buildings are also party walls.  

Party wall agreement –  

You must tell your neighbours and provide them with a notice and come up with an agreement in writing. If you use a builder or an architect, they can advise you on this. 

Once you’ve given notice your neighbour can:  

  • Give consent in writing  
  • Refuse consent  
  • Serve a counter notice requesting additional works be done at the same time 

Your neighbours must let you know in writing within 14 days if they consent to your notice, and you must do the same with a counter-notice   

The following works require you to obtain a party wall agreement  

  • Any work to shared walls between semi-detached and terraced houses  
  • Work to garden boundary walls  
  • Loft conversions that mean cutting into the wall  
  • Making party walls thicker or higher  
  • Building a second storey extension above a shared wall  
  • Building a new wall up to or off the party wall  

What happens if a neighbour ignores the act – 

If an adjoining owner doesn’t respond, then you may appoint a surveyor to act for the adjoining owner. The act allows you to do this without having any further discussion with a neighbour.  

What is a Party Wall?

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10 Ways To Increase Natural Light In Your Home

21st October 20210

Natural light is so important to our health and well-being. Improving the levels of natural light in your home can trigger natural chemicals in our body called serotonin. The more exposed we are to the light the less we feel sleepy and are less likely to become depressed.  

Skylights –  

Skylights are one of the most popular ways to add natural light to your home. They can make a dramatic change, even on dull, grey, damp days, the area is still filled with light. Natural light spills in making the smallest spaces feel light and airy. For extra privacy or to reduce the amount of light to prevent overheating, you can add blinds to the windows. 

FIXED SKYLIGHTS PITCHED ROOF - SKYLIGHT SUPPLIES NO1 ROOFING

 Replacing internal walls with windows-  

Replacing the walls with windows is another way of creating additional light in the home. This also gives the illusion of adding more space, in a small area. They are also a striking design feature and they can make a fantastic focal point in modern homes.  

130 Window Walls ideas | house design, window wall, home

Use glass doors to bring in more natural light –  

Another effective way to bring light into a space is by replacing solid doors with glass doors, bi-fold doors, or French doors. The light can pass easily from one room to another and they also bring the outside, in.  

Make the most of the natural light with a glazed extension in Derby

Use mirrors and shiny objects to add more light –  

Mirrors give a greater sense of space, and when carefully placed it can help direct natural light into darker spaces. They also make the interior of the house look fresh and open Mirrors also bounce the light off things so include metallic surfaces or décor in the room.  

How to decorate with mirrors without turning your home into a fun house | The Star

Choose the right colour palette – 

Painting a room white is probably the quickest and cheapest way to maximise the light in that room. However, this depends on where the windows are placed, because the glare of the sun can alter its appearance.  

Also, if you paint the ceiling a few shades lighter than the walls, the room will feel larger, taller, and brighter.  

10 Best Paint Colors for Small Living Rooms

Have minimal furniture – 

Having minimal and light-coloured furniture opens up the room and makes the space looks bigger. Without the clutter of bulky furniture, the natural light has room to illuminate the living space.  

You should also make sure that you use lighter shades of furniture because heavy shades can block the light from entering your home.  

Minimalist Interior Design Defined And How To Make It Work - Décor Aid

The right flooring  

Flooring can be transformed into light-friendly reflectors by choosing wooden, ceramic, or stone floors with a polished finish. This will reflect much lighter than carpets. However, if you prefer carpet you should stick to light, neutral colours.   

Muniellos Light Oak 910x153 Anti-Slip Tiles | Walls and Floors

Clean windows  

One of the simplest ways to increase light is by cleaning your windows. Eliminating the dirt ensures that as much light as possible can filter through the glass and into your home.  

The Ultimate Guide To Cleaning Your Outside Windows - King of Maids

Remove unnecessary walls  

If you can remove the walls or make the space open plan is a wonderful way to achieve complete openness. Having multiple rooms flow into one to light up the area is great. Because the walls will not be blocking the light and the room would share multiple windows.  

8 Open-Plan Mistakes — and How to Avoid Them

Add greenery  

 When all else fails, you can always count on house plants to help you compensate for the lack of natural light. Plants give off ethereal vibes and keep the air clean. 

How To Style Your Home With Indoor Plants | Our Top Five Tips | Hunting for George

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Architectural Service Prices UK: How Much Do They Charge?

20th October 20210

Architects’ prices can vary, not only in their level but also in the methods of their calculations. There are different methods for calculating the prices. This includes the percentage of construction, a fixed fee, and hourly rates.  

When you decide that you would like to use architectural services, the first question you have in mind is how much does it cost to hire an architect? 

Prices back in the day  

Up until the 1980s, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) published a mandatory and recommended fee scale on the prices they could expect architects to charge. However, due to the increase in competition the fee scales were abolished.  

How much do architects charge? 

This isn’t a simple question because there are so many different ways, they can charge you. And it also depends on your project and the features you want to include. Although here is an overview of the different methods:  

  • A percentage of the project – this can range from 1.5% to 20%. Usually, the bigger the project, the lower the percentage.  
  • Fixed fees – the architects can quote you a lump sum depending on how much work they will have to put into your project.  
  • Hourly rates – will get charged by the hour.   

Architect’s fees for residential projects will normally vary between 10%-14% of construction cost.  

How much does it cost for the drawings?  

Architects make design decisions that will add value to the site, they will then draw the floor plans, elevations, and visualisations. You will need these for planning applications, building control approval, and for the builders to use for construction.  

Prices typically range from £1400 – £6000 with an average of £3700. Although the prices will differ depending on the size and complexity of the project.  

Your architect will play an important role in:  

  • Discussing your project in detail with you  
  • Providing advice, guidance, and assistance  
  • Preparing and submitting your planning/ building regs application  
  • Hel you manage design and building mistakes (if any) 

A good architect will save you money in the long run, through careful planning that avoids costly changes and a U-turn on site. They would be looking out for your money at every stage.  

What to expect from an architect’s price proposal –  

Although each project is different, the proposal should include the same key information: 

  • A description of the project and brief 
  • A schedule or description of services to be provided 
  • The fee chargeable, broken down against work stages of the project 
  • Additional chargeable expenses  
  • An outline of project timescale  

If your proposal doesn’t include any of the information above, ask your architect for further clarification.  

What's the Average Building Cost Per Sq M in 2021? | Checkatrade

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The Ultimate Guide To An HMO Property

19th October 20210

What is an HMO? 

A house in multiple occupations (HMO), is a property rented out by at least three people who are not from one household, for example, a family. However, they share facilities like the bathroom and kitchen. They’re known as house shares.  

However, many types of accommodation could be an HMO. These may include:  

  • Hostels 
  • Lodgings 
  • Shared houses 
  • Refuges 
  • Private halls of residence 
  • Blocks of converted flats 
  • Employee accommodation 
  • Building containing numerous bedsits with shared facilities 
  • Buildings containing flats with their own facilities, but are not self-contained 

Design –  

In HMOs, the bathrooms, kitchen, stairs, gardens and landings are designated as common areas shared by all tenants. In addition, the house may be divided up into self-contained flats, bed-sitting rooms or simple lodgings. 

What determines whether the property is an HMO or not? 

Properties must have these four common features before being classified as an HMO: 

  • Occupants are not forming a single household 
  • Occupants must be using the property as their main residence 
  • Used for residential purposes 
  • One of the occupants must be paying rent  

Households are regarded as family members living together or single people living alone.  

HMO Licences – 

HMOs require a licence from the local council in the area the property is located, which is valid for five years. For instance, the general rule is that any property with five or more people from two or more separate households that share facilities requires a licence. Although this depends on the council, some smaller properties with fewer tenants can also require a licence.  

The standard HMO licence fee is £1,100, split into two payments. For larger HMOs with more than ten units of accommodation, the fee increases by an extra £50 for each additional unit of accommodation.  

The pros and cons of renting an HMO by room  

Pros  

  • Usually more profitable as you can charge a higher rent per room 
  • Can let the room on a licence (this makes things easier if you need to evict a tenant) 
  • You cannot be excluded from the common parts. Only individual rooms 
  • If one tenant leaves, you are losing less rent than if a whole group moves out 

Cons  

  • So, you will be responsible for paying and managing bills  
  • Tenants do not know each other which may result in mismatch of personalities and potentially cause issues 
  • A tenant is only responsible for their room, not the common parts. In addition, this means if there is any damage it may be difficult to prove who caused it  

Are HMOs profitable? 

HMOs can be very profitable because you can charge rent per room that totals more than if you let the property to one household. For example, you could rent a 3-bed property for £1000 per month to a family, or 3 rooms for £400 each giving a total of £1200.  

Are you aware of the HMO Changes for Landlords coming into effect in October?

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