Conservatory delayed!

[Goofyish]

We have planned to have a new conservatory at the rear of our house. We've had about 6 quotes from local companies and chose the one we felt was the best (not the cheapest or the dearest - but they just felt right).

All the companies who quoted said that planning permission wouldn't be required for conservatories as long as they were within a certain size and met various other rules - we were confident that we were ok, but just on the safe side we contacted the local council planning office.

Got the letter back this morning informing us we DO actually need planning permission
The reason being that the little unmade-up access road which runs along the back of our house to give garage access is classed as a 'highway', and any extension within 20m of a 'highway' requires planning permission.

So we now have all the hassle of applying for planning permission which will put the installation back after Xmas - we were hoping to have it all finished by Xmas

 

[drennan]

Oh Dear Not a happy chappy then this Friday afternoon

 

[Bwalker]

Tim, if I didn't know better, I'd think you were living in the United States!

This scenario sounds all too familiar

Think of the bright side though - at least you didn't build it and then have to tear it down because of codes

Hope it all works out for you in the long run

Aloha,
Lorraine

 

[Janice]

Sorry to hear this news Tim - as Lorraine says, just as well you had the foresight to contact the Council. A client of ours had to rip one down because he didnt think it necessary to get permission. Cost him double to money to get us to install the heating, un-install it, then re-do it again once the alterations had been made!

I am surprised the companies never knew the rules of your Council?

 

[Mrs Dazzle]

Tim. Sorry about the council red tape - but I'm sure it'll be worth it in the end

 

[Olaf]

Originally posted by Bwalker
Tim, if I didn't know better, I'd think you were living in the United States!

Come on Lorraine, the Brits invented our bureaucracy.

How long will it take to get permission Tim? Can you light a fire under the Council? Plead, beg, bribe? How desperate are you?

 

[Goofyish]

The nice man in the planning department said if there are no problems it would take about 4-5 weeks. Apparently if the plan is straight forward the planning officer can 'rubber stamp' the application without the plans having to go in front of the full planning committee on the council.

I think they have to wait at least 21 days for any body to come forward with any objections (time to treat the neighbours to a drink or two ).

 

[Fantasia Sam]

Tim

Wot a shame! I know you were so looking forward to getting it done. I'd start asking the neighbours if they need any gardening done Saying that drink would work on me