Are you thinking of making use of the new increased permitted development rules for single storey rear house extensions? If so AUD Architects can provide advice to ensure you maximise the return for your investment. AUD Architects are an RIBA Chartered Practice and work throughout the Cheshire region and the northwest of England.

The changes to the permitted development regulations still require you to notify your local authority of your proposals. Below is a summary of the planning authority notification process.

For a period of three years, between 30 May 2013 and 30 May 2016, householders will be able to build larger single-storey rear extensions under permitted development. The size limits will double from 4 metres to 8 metres for detached houses, and from 3 metres to 6 metres for all other houses.

However a homeowner wishing to build a larger single-storey rear extension must still notify the local planning authority. Following notification the local authority will serve a notice on adjoining owners or occupiers and may ask for further information if it needs it to make a decision about the impact of the proposal on the amenity of adjoining properties.

If any adjoining neighbour raises an objection within the 21-day period, the local authority will take this into account and make a decision about whether the impact on the amenity of all adjoining properties is acceptable. No other issues will be considered.

If the local authority notifies the developer in writing either:

• that as no objections were received from adjoining neighbours it has not been necessary to consider the impact on amenity, or

• that following consideration, it has decided that the effect on the amenity of adjoining properties is acceptable.

the development can go ahead.

If the local authority does not notify the developer of its decision within the 42-day determination period, the development may go ahead. If approval is refused, the developer may appeal.

The extension must be built in accordance with the details approved by the local authority unless the local authority agrees any changes in writing.

The development must accord with all other relevant limitations and conditions which apply to other rear extensions allowed under permitted development.

To benefit from these permitted development rights, the extension must be completed on or before 30 May 2016. The developer must notify the local authority in writing of the date of completion.