Do I Need Planning Permission for Demolition?
If you are thinking about demolishing a structure, it is important to know whether you will need to apply for planning permission or prior approval. Various factors such as the type, size, and location of the building control this. Remember that before you start any demolition, you must check your local planning authorities and do not book a hole that might get you in trouble.
Key Takeaways
Planning permission is crucial when demolishing structures in conservation areas, listed buildings, and public houses due to their heritage and community value.
Full planning consent is necessary for demolishing live performance venues, unsafe dwellings, and specific outdoor monuments.
Permitted development rights might not cover demolitions required by legal obligations or existing planning permissions.
Seeking advice from professionals like chartered architectural technologists or planning consultants ensures adherence to all necessary regulations and standards.
Factors Affecting Planning Permission for Demolition
Conservation Areas
Regulations for the demolition of a building in the conservation area- If your project does not qualify, you will have to submit an application for planning permission for the demolition of a building. Conservation areas have additional planning rules to ensure that the historical or architectural importance of the area is not lost and so all curtilage areas require careful demolition planning.
Listed Buildings and Scheduled Monuments
Listed buildings and scheduled ancient monuments are protected by different legislation. Wrecking of this style of houses desires a further process application. Replete with history and culture, many of these buildings are decreed to be kept in tact from demolition (an action that is severely penalised in England).
Public Houses & Drinking Establishments
Full planning permission is required for the demolition of public houses or other drinking establishments, with or without food provision, pubs offering expanded food services, and all drinking establishments. They tend to be older structures that hold some sort of community importance, and their removal is studied and often closely regulated to ensure that it is in line with established development guidelines in a city.
Concert Halls, Theatres, and Live Music Venues
However, full planning permission is needed for the demolition of buildings used for live performances (eg comedy and concert or cinemas and music arenas, and theatres/entertainment halls. The public has a vested interest in the continued operation of these locations due to their importance to regular American culture.
Hazardous or Unfit Dwellings
Where a building is considered to be dangerous or unfit for human habitation as a result of the actions or inaction of a person with an interest in the building full planning permission is required to carry out demolition. A final guarantee that demolition will not occur unless it is the only option proposed to ensure safety and health from repairs or temporary support.
Outdoor Statues, Memorials, and Monuments
However, some other rules apply to the tearing down of outdoor statues, memorials, and monuments. Frequently, these structures are of historical or cultural significance and therefore require some form of formal approval, unless registered under certain criteria, to be demolished.
Permitted Development Rights and Demolition
Permitted development rights cover types of building work and changes of use that can be undertaken without submitting a planning application. Generally, these rights are not waived when the demolition is conducted for the following reasons:
Land with Existing Planning Permission: If the land is subject to planning permission for redevelopment, granted on application, or deemed to be granted, permitted development rights may not apply.
Other Enactments: Demolition required or permitted by other legislation or enactment may not fall under permitted development rights.
Relevant Obligations: If demolition is required due to specific legal obligations, permitted development rights may not apply.
Post-Demolition Planning Considerations
Permission to demolish a building does not give permission to build new or change the use of the site. That is, insurance approval is not contingent upon the original structure being destroyed by fire or a storm, and the process for new construction approval is another unconnected matter and must be satisfied independently.
Seek Professional Advice
If in doubt, it is best to consult a professional for a hassle-free demolition process. Advice and support are readily available from chartered architectural technologists, builders, and planning consultants who can make sure that you meet all the required standards and regulations. Look in directories of professional bodies such as CIAT, FMB, or RTPI.
Conclusion
Applying for planning permission to demolish may seem complicated, but getting to grips with the basics will ensure you stay on the right side of the law and avoid potential delays. It is advisable that you check with your local planning authority to see what requirements exist before commencing any demolition work.
Another resource that continues to be helpful is legal advice since every project is different and the amount of money you could lose or gain in any given project is enormous, so if a lawyer is offering you advice specific to your situation and if you have a significant chunk of money you could lose, I think you should probably take it into account.
Looking for professional demolition services? For consultation and quote contact UK Construction Waste Co.
