- The number of planning applications submitted for residential property in England and Wales was 16% lower in the first half of 2022 than in 2021, at 218,640.
- Across all regions, application numbers in June were lower than a year ago. The steepest fall was in London at 21%, compared to the South West (12%) and the West Midlands (14%).
- Many homeowners sought to adapt their homes in the wake of the pandemic and the ‘work from home’ requirement. That spike of activity seems to have subsided this year. Consents and prior approvals for larger home extensions fell by 20% and 25% respectively in 2022 versus 2021.
- Smaller adaptations and extensions are allowable without planning permission under ‘permitted development rights’, as long as they adhere to strict conditions. Source: Dataloft, The Planning Portal
The covid-19 pandemic was a tense and stressful time for many of us. Those that were purchasing properties at this time had to stop going into people’s properties to view them Once we were over the worse, when buyers were actually allowed back into people’s homes, we noticed quite a few buyers were looking for a property to buy that they could extend. Whether that be to add an extra bedroom, or for properties with good size gardens that they could build outhouses or offices in. The comments were always “I think working from home could be the new norm for us”
Not all amendments to a property’s size and structure require planning permission to be granted. Some small extensions come under permitted development, meaning there is no need for planning permission as such. In this scenario, a homeowner would only be required to follow certain conditions which the relevant council requires.
Over the last 2 years, we have sold a number of new developments in Croydon and surrounding areas such as Thornton Heath, Mitcham, Wallington and Crystal Place, to name a few. We would welcome the opportunity to speak to any land owners or developers to assist with pricing or selling their developments. Please call and speak to one of our Property Experts at your convenience.
Leigh Thomas – Truuli Property Expert
