blog Archives - Sam Planning

Image captures Types of Loft Conversions. Sam planning can help clients attain planning permission for loft conversion Haringey and wider London.

Explore the Different Types of Loft Conversions

June 23, 2023

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Loft conversions offer a fantastic opportunity to expand your living space and unlock the hidden potential of your home. In this article, we delve into the various types of loft conversions, highlighting their unique features and benefits. From dormer conversions to Mansard and hip-to-gable options, explore the possibilities and find the perfect loft conversion to suit your needs.

Dormer Loft Conversion

One popular type of loft conversion is the dormer conversion. This involves extending the existing roof to create additional headroom and floor space. Dormer conversions are versatile and can accommodate various room configurations. They provide ample natural light through dormer windows, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.

Mansard Loft Conversion

A Mansard loft conversion is characterized by a flat roof with a gentle slope and rear wall windows. This type of conversion maximizes the available space, providing ample headroom and a spacious living area. Mansard conversions are ideal for creating luxurious master suites or stylish guest rooms. The added roof windows flood the room with natural light, creating a welcoming ambiance.

Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion

For properties with hipped roofs, a hip-to-gable loft conversion is an excellent choice. This type involves extending the roof to create a vertical gable wall. Hip-to-gable conversions significantly increase the usable floor area and headroom, allowing for spacious bedrooms, modern bathrooms, or a dedicated home office. The extended roofline adds architectural interest to the property’s exterior.

Final Thoughts on Types of Loft Conversions

In this article, we have explored the different types of loft conversions available for transforming your home. From dormer conversions to Mansard and hip-to-gable options, each type offers unique benefits and opportunities for creating additional space and enhancing your living environment. Stay tuned for our next article, where we will delve into creative ideas for utilizing loft conversions. At Sam Planning, we specialize in planning for the most of your home’s potential. Contact us today to embark on your loft conversion journey and create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle and needs.

Sam Planning explains the uses of basements in the UK. Sam Planning can help you get planning permission Haringey, Hackney and the wider London

Unlocking Basement Potential: Benefits & Uses

June 15, 2023

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Basements, often overlooked spaces beneath our homes, have the potential to transform properties into something truly extraordinary. As a leading planning services firm in London and the surrounding areas, Sam Planning is dedicated to helping property owners unlock the hidden potential of basements. In this article, we explore the numerous benefits and uses of basements and provide creative ideas for their utilization.

Additional Living Space

Basements offer the opportunity to expand your living area without altering the footprint of your property. They can be transformed into versatile living spaces, such as an entertainment room, home gym, or guest suite. Imagine having a cozy cinema room for movie nights or a private retreat for visiting family and friends.

Home Office or Study Area

In today’s remote working era, having a dedicated home office or study area is invaluable. A basement can be converted into a peaceful and productive workspace, free from the distractions of the main living areas. With proper planning and design, you can create an inspiring environment to boost productivity and focus.

Storage and Utility Space

One of the most practical uses of basements is for storage and utility purposes. It provides ample room to store household items, seasonal decorations, or sports equipment. Additionally, basements can house utility rooms, housing boilers, laundry facilities, and other essential equipment, keeping them separate from the main living areas.

Creative Spaces

Basements offer endless possibilities for creative expression. They can be transformed into artist studios, music rooms, or hobby spaces tailored to your passions. Whether you’re an artist, musician, or craft enthusiast, a basement provides a private sanctuary to explore your creative pursuits.

Wine Cellar or Home Bar

For wine enthusiasts or those who enjoy entertaining, a basement can be converted into a stylish wine cellar or home bar. With proper climate control, lighting, and storage solutions, you can create a sophisticated space to showcase your wine collection or entertain guests in a unique and intimate setting.

So - Benefits and Uses of Basements

Don’t let the potential of your basement go untapped. With the help of Sam Planning, you can transform this underutilized space into something remarkable. Whether you desire additional living space, a dedicated workspace, or a creative haven, a basement offers endless opportunities. Contact us today to unlock the hidden potential of your property through basement excavation and planning expertise.

Home with Loft Conversions in London. Home with Rear Extensions in London. Sam Planning helps client achieve planning permission for rear extensions and loft conversions Haringey and wider London.

Expanding Horizons: Rear Extensions in London

May 11, 2023

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Unleashing the Full Potential of Your Property with Tailored Rear Extensions

Transforming your London property into a space that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle is a dream that can become a reality with the right development choices. Among the various options available, a rear extension stands out as a versatile and customizable solution. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of rear extensions in London, highlighting the multitude of possibilities they offer to London property owners.

Embracing Extra Space: Expanding Your Living Area

A rear extension presents an excellent opportunity to create additional space in your home. Whether you envision an expansive open-plan kitchen, a stylish dining area, or a tranquil lounge, a rear extension can cater to your specific needs. By seamlessly blending the existing structure with the new extension, you’ll gain a harmonious flow that enhances your everyday living experience.

Captivating Design Possibilities: Tailoring Your Extension to Perfection

One of the key advantages of a rear extension is its versatility in design. From contemporary glass structures that flood your home with natural light to elegant brick extensions that blend seamlessly with period properties, the design options are vast. Whether you desire a modern, minimalist aesthetic or a charming traditional look, a rear extension can be tailored to match your unique taste and complement the existing architectural style.

Connecting with the Outdoors: Embracing Nature and Natural Light

Rear extensions in London can also serve as a gateway to the great outdoors. By incorporating features like bi-fold doors, skylights, or expansive windows, you can seamlessly connect your indoor living space with your garden or outdoor area. This creates a delightful blend of indoor comfort and outdoor beauty, allowing you to enjoy the changing seasons and bask in abundant natural light throughout the year.

Enhancing Property Value: Investing in Your Home's Future

A thoughtfully designed and well-executed rear extension can significantly increase the value of your London property. The additional square footage, improved functionality, and enhanced aesthetics make your home more appealing to potential buyers and renters. By investing in a rear extension, you’re not only creating a more enjoyable living space for yourself but also making a smart financial decision that can yield substantial returns in the long run.

In Conclusion - Rear Extensions in London:

At Sam Planning, we specialize in assisting London property owners in realizing their rear extension dreams. Our expert planning consultants are well-versed in the intricacies of the planning permission process and will guide you seamlessly through every step. From conceptualization to completion, we provide comprehensive support and professional expertise, ensuring your rear extension project meets your vision and satisfies the requirements set by local authorities.

Unlock the true potential of your London property with a bespoke rear extension. Contact Sam Planning today and embark on a transformative journey that enhances your living space, maximizes your property’s value, and reflects your unique style and aspirations.

Bedroom with loft conversions in London. This image shows users how they can maximize their space using Sam planning, planning permission services for loft conversions Haringey, Hackney and the wider london.

Loft Conversions in London: Maximizing Your Property

May 5, 2023

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As a property owner in London, it’s essential to understand the developments that you can have permission for in order to maximize the potential of your property. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of one such development – the loft conversion – and the planning application process involved in achieving planning permission for loft conversions in London.

Why Loft Conversions?

Loft conversions are an excellent way for property owners to expand their living space without having to move. This development involves converting an existing loft space into a functional room, such as a bedroom, home office, or even a gym. A loft conversion can increase the value of a property by up to 20% while also providing extra living space for the property owner to enjoy.

How to get planning permission for a loft conversion?

To achieve planning permission for a loft conversion, the property owner will need to submit a planning application to their local planning authority. The application will need to include all necessary details, such as drawings and plans, as well as demonstrate compliance with all relevant planning regulations and guidelines.

At Sam Planning, we have years of experience navigating the planning application process and achieving planning permission for a wide range of developments, including loft conversions. Our team of expert planners can guide property owners through the process, from initial concept to completion, ensuring that their loft conversion is legally compliant and tailored to their needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, loft conversions are a popular and practical development for property owners in London, offering both extra living space and increased property value. With the help of our planning services firm, property owners can successfully navigate the planning application process and achieve planning permission for their loft conversion, transforming their homes into the space they’ve always dreamed of.

Building gains planning permission in London with Sam Planning.

How to Apply for Planning Permission in London

April 28, 2023

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Overview of the Planning System in London

London is a city of constant development and growth, with new projects popping up all over the place. However, all construction work must first go through the planning system, which can be complex and time-consuming to navigate. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the planning system in London, as well as some tips on how to navigate the maze of planning permission in London successfully.

The Planning Permission Application Process

The first step in the planning process is to determine whether planning permission is required for the proposed development. In most cases, planning permission is necessary for any new building work or changes to an existing building that significantly affects its appearance or use.

Once it’s been determined that planning permission is needed, the next step is to submit a planning application. The application should include all the necessary information, such as drawings, plans, and other supporting documents, as well as the application fee.

Planning Regulations and Guidelines

When preparing a planning application, it’s important to ensure that the proposed development complies with all relevant planning regulations and guidelines. These regulations and guidelines can vary depending on the location and type of development, so it’s crucial to do your research and understand what’s required.

The London Plan is the overarching planning strategy for the city and sets out the key objectives and policies for development. It covers issues such as housing, transport, the environment, and economic development.

Local planning authorities also have their own planning policies and guidelines, which are set out in their Local Plans. These plans set out the specific requirements for development within their areas, including things like building heights, density, and design standards.

Engaging with Local Communities and Stakeholders

Engaging with local communities and stakeholders is an important part of the planning process. It can help to ensure that the proposed development meets the needs of the local area and that any concerns or issues are addressed.

Consultation with the public is often required as part of the planning process, and local planning authorities will typically require applicants to submit a Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) detailing how they plan to engage with local communities and stakeholders.

Navigating Planning Permission in London Successfully

Navigating the planning system in London can be a complex and time-consuming process, but there are some things that can help to increase the chances of success.

Firstly, it’s important to do your research and ensure that the proposed development complies with all relevant planning regulations and guidelines. Engaging with local communities and stakeholders is also important, as it can help to address any concerns and issues.

Secondly, it’s important to work closely with the local planning authority throughout the process. This can involve submitting pre-application inquiries to get feedback on proposals, attending pre-application meetings to discuss proposals in more detail, and keeping in regular contact with planning officers throughout the application process.

Finally, it’s important to be patient and flexible. The planning process can be lengthy, and changes to proposals may be required in response to feedback from planning officers or local communities. However, with careful planning and engagement, it’s possible to navigate the planning system successfully and achieve planning permission for your proposed development.

The Importance of Planning Permission in London

April 21, 2023

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The Importance of Planning Permission in London: Understanding the Planning Process

When it comes to the construction or modification of buildings in London, one of the most important aspects is obtaining planning permission. Planning permission is a legal requirement in the UK that determines whether a proposed development is acceptable and whether it can be built in a certain location. In this article, we will explore the importance of planning permission and the planning process that developers must go through in order to obtain it.

Why is planning permission necessary?

Planning permission is necessary for a number of reasons. Firstly, it ensures that any proposed development is appropriate for the intended location and is in line with the local planning policies and regulations. This is crucial for maintaining the character of the area and ensuring that it is not negatively impacted by any new development. Additionally, planning permission is necessary to ensure that the safety of the public is not compromised and that the proposed development does not pose any risks to the surrounding environment or infrastructure.

The Planning Process

The planning process in London is overseen by the local planning authority, which is usually the local council. Developers who wish to build or modify a building must first submit a planning application to the local planning authority. This application will include details of the proposed development, including the size and design of the building, as well as any other relevant information such as access and parking requirements.

Once the planning application has been submitted, the local planning authority will review the proposal to determine whether it is in line with the local planning policies and regulations. They will consider a number of factors, including the impact of the proposed development on the surrounding area, the sustainability of the development, and the safety of the public.

After the planning authority has reviewed the application, they will either grant or refuse planning permission. If planning permission is granted, the developer will be given a set of conditions that must be met in order for the development to proceed. These conditions may include requirements for landscaping, parking, or access, and failure to comply with these conditions may result in the planning permission being revoked.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning permission is a crucial aspect of the construction or modification of buildings in London. It ensures that any proposed development is appropriate for the intended location and is in line with the local planning policies and regulations. The planning process can be complex and time-consuming, but it is essential for ensuring that new development is safe, sustainable, and beneficial to the local area. If you are a developer who is planning a new development in London, it is important to work closely with the local planning authority to ensure that your proposal meets all the necessary requirements for obtaining planning permission.

Sam Planning are experts is planning permission and planning applications. Contact us for free advice!

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City of London Latest Planning News

January 25, 2023

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According to Property Week, Derwent London has agreed to sell 19 Charterhouse Street for £54 million. The REIT sold the freehold interest in the 63,170 square foot office building to a Morgan Capital and BNF Capital-led family office. The London College of Accountancy currently occupies the building, which Derwent purchased for £41.3 million in 2013. The lease expires in 2025. The annual passing rent is £2.6m, and the sale price represents a 4.6% net initial yield to the purchaser and a capital value of £855/sq ft – a marginal discount to the book value in June 2022.

According to new City of London Corporation plans, Britain’s first 24/7 “zero-emission” street could be built in the Square Mile. In March 2020, Beech Street was closed to all gasoline and diesel vehicles for an 18-month experiment to drastically reduce levels of harmful nitrogen dioxide. The City of London Corporation is now consulting on proposals for a permanent ban on polluting vehicles except for deliveries, garbage collection, and carpark access, reversing one of the City’s most polluted streets. Graham Packham, Chairman of the Streets and Walkways Sub-Committee, stated that “radical action” was required to restore air quality in the area. The Corporation is also collaborating with Islington Council on plans to reduce traffic and pollution in Bunhill, Barbican, and Golden Lane.

According to the Architect’s Journal, designs for the £1.5 billion revamp of Liverpool Street Station have been revealed. A second public consultation has been launched on Network Rail and developer Sellar’s proposals for two new connected towers above an overhauled station. The proposed buildings are 21 and 15 storeys tall, respectively, and would add 17,651 square meters of hotel space and 78,038 square meters of office space to the Andaz. Heritage groups had previously expressed concerns about the plans after they were revealed in October, with Historic England later expanding the station’s listings to include the 1990s elements impacted by the new towers. Sellar CEO James Sellar stated that the proposals would “enable the £450 million vital station upgrades at no cost to taxpayer passengers.”

Latest Planning News – City of Westminster

January 18, 2023

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Residents of Church Street have voted in favour of regeneration plans that call for the construction of 156 new council houses over three sites in the neighbourhood. In a poll conducted by Westminster City Council, 73% of voters approved the proposals, which also call for the re-provisioning of all 228 existing council dwellings in the area as well as new civic, commercial, and employment prospects. In order to guarantee the delivery of the programme, Westminster City Council may now submit a financial proposal to the Greater London Authority (GLA).

According to The Hampstead and Highgate Express, despite concerns from locals that the property would be poisoned, Westminster City Council has started construction on 21 dwellings on a carpark in Maida Vale. Residents are now irate at WCC for withholding the findings of recent soil tests after the council’s own investigation confirmed the presence of harmful compounds in the earth. Despite objections from neighbours, notably the Naima Jewish Preparatory School in Andover Place, contractor Osborne started drilling on January 4 of this year after the housing project on the Torridon estate was approved by the then-Conservative-led council in 2020. Geoff Barralough, a councillor for Maida Vale ward and the cabinet member for planning, urged an impartial study to ease concerns, although one has not yet been conducted.

A permanent outdoor dining programme on Warwick Way and Churton Street in Pimlico is now the subject of consultation by Westminster City Council. Residents can give their opinions on the suggestions, which include improving lighting, drainage, and cycling facilities, as well as extending footways and planting areas, during the 8-week consultation period that started on December 15th. The Westminster City Council anticipates that the plan will boost the neighbourhood business and revitalise the high street. The Pimlico Neighbourhood Forum (PNF) and the Federation of Pimlico Residents’ Associations have previously endorsed the plan (FREDA). The consultation is scheduled to end on February 9, 2023.

Why Get A Certificate of Lawfulness for A PD?

December 15, 2022

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Why should I get a Lawful Development Certificate for a Permitted Development Right?

Simply, because you don’t really know if it is, and always going to be, a Permitted Development Right. And most importantly, a Lawful Development Certificate can save you a tremendous amount of money. Let’s show you how in the following cases…

A C3 to C4 is a permitted development right, why get a Lawfulness Certificate?

The change of use from C3 (residential, single dwelling) to C4 (HMO) is a permitted development right, isn’t it?

And until now article 4 (invalidates Permitted Development Rights) takes a year to be approved and activated within an area. A council must put a consultation first and it’s not less than a year when article 4 is in place.

However, have you heard the news? Last month, Merton Council did a completely different thing. Merton Council placed article 4 for the change of use from C3 to C4 on the 17th of November with immediate effect. And to be compliant, they decided to make a consultation but it will be after article 4 comes in. If they get an objection within the next 6 months, they won’t be able to put it through, but if they don’t, article 4 will be active and in place since the date of November 17th and on.

Now, people have already started building and changing use because they have known that article 4 takes a year to come in. But look at the problem they are in now, they put in money to change use from a C3 to C4 but they can’t finish it because article 4 is now and immediately active in this area.

That’s why we always recommend that you get a Lawful Development Certificate before you start doing your work because once you have it, you have it approved forever.

Those owners would have avoided that issue that is happening now if they had a Lawfulness Certificate. See, the change of use from a C3 to a C4 costs 150K pounds for the building works compared to only 1K, the cost of the certificate, which could have guaranteed them peace of mind. People are literally gambling 150K pounds when they can have it secured for only 1k.

Another thing is, if you have a Certificate of Lawfulness, to the bank, it’s now legal.

Case Study:

There was once an incident of a group of people, they had a 6-bedroom HMO that they changed into a 7-bedroom one, which is a Permitted Development Right. The council demanded they put it back to a single dwelling. However, they had a Lawfulness Certificate for the 6-bedroom HMO. The court then said they don’t have to put it back as a single dwelling, but they would have to put it back to a 6-bedroom HMO because that was the last legal use. It would have cost them 150K if they hadn’t had that Certificate of Lawfulness.

A back loft extension is a permitted development right, why get a Lawfulness Certificate?

For a back loft extension, what you have permitted is 40 or 50 cubic meters. Most of the time it’s very difficult to make the calculations right to be on the safe side. At the same time, the small design is an issue. And even if you do it right, the bank will like to have it once you come to remortgage.

So again, you cost yourself so much money, 100k, to build a loft extension, and dismiss to secure it with a 1k Certificate of Lawfulness.

Case Study:

A few weeks ago, a property owner went to build a back loft extension for a new house, they didn’t know that the council had taken away all Permitted Development Rights from that house because it was new. And now they have to break it off. If the council had given them a Certificate of Lawfulness, it wouldn’t have cost them that much money because the council would have had to pay for the costs.