No 'Free-for-All' for building warns warns Galway Planning Chief
New regulations not a blank canvass, council hears
NEWLY introduced planning regulations are not a “free-for-all” for beginning new extensions, Galway County Council’s Director of Planning has warned.
The regulations came into effect on Monday July 27 and are set to make it easier for homeowners to extend, adapt and improve their properties.
They will also reduce unnecessary planning applications for straightforward residential works, while also allowing planning authorities to focus on more complex developments.
However, speaking during a recent plenary meeting, Connemara District Councillor Thomas Welby voiced his concerns that the regulations could lead to a rise in unauthorised developments. He called on the council to provide more guidance to the public on the regulations.
“I can answer any of the queries councillors bring on this subject, but we are not here to offer advice to the public on how to proceed,” warned Liam Hanrahan, the Director of Services for Planning.
“It is not up to us to bring comfort on this issue to the public. Speak to your engineers, make sure your development is among the exceptions and in the eligible areas before deciding on whether to proceed. There is no free-for-all for planning.”
Among the key changes to the planning regulations sees the existing exemption for extension of a principal dwelling increased from 40 square metres to 45 square metres.
A new exemption will also provide for extensions via the addition of dormer roof boxes and roof lights on the principal dwelling.
The regulations for an auxiliary habitable dwelling will now allow for the addition of a detached auxiliary dwelling to the rear of the principal house, which is linked to the services of the principal house. It can be between 32 and 45 square metres.
Provisions have also been put in place for works that involve the insulation of external walls, while heat pumps are no longer restricted to being installed to the rear of a property.
The existing exemption for a structure in the back garden (such as a shed, store, home office or gym) will also be increased from 25 square metres to 30 square metres.