Define 'Rear Wall' for Planning purposes.

[Nickam]

I am looking at an extension for a client who has a mid terrace property. They have a bay window going out the back of the property and wish to add an extension. The question is, for the purposes of 'Permitted Development' should one measure the 3 metres from the main wall, or the rear of the bay window?
Cheers,
Nick

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

You mean as in a dormer on the roof? I'd take it from the main wall.

 

[Nickam]

No, I mean a ground floor extension. Sorry, the word dormer should have been bay window.

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

With my cynical hat on I'd say the main house. I myself wouldn't be comfortable telling a client they didn't need permission and could use the bay wall instead unless a discussion with a planner reveals it is very clear cut. Otherwise I'd stick the decision firmly on the clients shoulders or recommend they get a lawful development certificate.

 

[Nickam]

Yep, exactly what I was going to do. Just wondered if anyone else had got an answer. I think it's another one of those grey areas.

 

[nickjb]

Not really a grey area. This thread has some more detail:

http://www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=218246

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Not really a grey area. This thread has some more detail:

http://www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=218246

Well maybe in your opinion.

If following a discussion with the particular authority it is abundantly clear then thats great however myself, Nickam and other professionals cannot afford any doubt whatsoever as to such definitions and whatever it says on the Planning Portal it is the particular local authority that will need to be satisfied and it is they who will stick their oar in if they are unsure. Its about limiting the risk. Would you be happy to advise a client that a bay was categorically an 'addition/outrigger' and more importantly would you stake your professional reputation on it? Its fine for you to take a risk if its your own house but different when its your living. Furthermore its wholly un-professional.