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'Seek planning permission for home improvements'

People planning to make extensive home improvements have been advised to check whether they need planning permission.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) stated that if people are unsure whether their proposed renovations violate building regulations, they should consult with their local authority.

In addition, it said that those who have already carried out work without consent could be required to seek retrospective planning approval.

However, homeowners were informed that approval is not guaranteed and that they could be required to demolish the completed work.

Rics said: "If you're not sure of what requires planning permission and is needed to meet building regulations, it's worth consulting a surveyor or engineer, or the local authority."

The Daily Mail reported today that GMTV presenter Kate Garraway has fallen foul of planning regulations with a £50,000 extension on her North London home.

Islington Council's planning committee refused retrospective planning permission and told her to take it down or change it to suit the area.

This follows a similar dispute involving ex-Beatle Sir Paul McCartney over a wooden lodge and lakeside pavilion in his East Sussex estate, although he has now been allowed to keep the latter structure.

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23/03/2007 15:05:57

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