Converting office spaces into residential flats presents a viable solution to tackle the housing shortage in the UK. While obtaining Planning Permission is often necessary for such conversions, there are specific scenarios where it is possible to proceed without it.
Through the Prior Approval application process under Class MA, it is possible to convert offices to flats without Planning Permission. This guide will provide an overview of the essential factors and necessary steps involved in this process. Paul Ashton Architects Ltd, specialize in guiding clients through this process and delivering the complete package of information required to secure approval under this form of application.
Read moreIf you intend to extend or alter a Listed Building in a manner would affect its character then you need to apply for Listed Building Consent.
It is important to consider that an owner of a Listed Building is described as a ‘temporary custodian of the nation’s heritage’. The protection of the nation’s heritage is deemed to be so important that it is a criminal offence to carry out alterations which need Listed Building Consent without obtaining it first.
Read moreThese projects show the Liverpool that might have been. Some were pipe dreams, and some were serious proposals; some of the schemes are 'near misses', and others would have been positive additions to the city
Read moreI am often asked about ways in which people can improve the energy efficiency of their homes especially in reation to the Green Deal. In my other posts, I discuss the self build low-energy house, but what can a homeowner do to improve their existi...
Read moreImage: Saxton Gardens by Union North for Urban Splash The 'eco-house' has been seen by some as the marginal preserve of environmentalists and enthusiasts. Could it be that with recent changes in planning policy and the seemingly endless rises in e...
Read moreThe National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published on the 27th of March 2012. The coalition government claims that it is the 'biggest shake up to planning policy in 50 years'. The key word here is policy. This is not a change to the law. ...
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