The Minister said: “Many of us at some time in our lives will either extend or alter our homes or live beside someone who will. That is why it is important that there are clear guidelines in place to properly manage such proposals. Almost twenty-five percent of all planning applications received by my Department are for extensions or alterations.
"I am pleased that there was general support for this guidance at the consultation stage last year. I would encourage home owners to follow the new advice as it will help increase the chance of planning permission being granted and unnecessary delays avoided.”
The Minister said it was important that extensions and alterations to residential properties suited the existing building, fitted in with the surrounding area and contributed overall to a quality environment. It was also important to consider how neighbours may be affected and to provide them with adequate protection.
Notes to Editors:
- The Department’s new policy and guidance is contained in an Addendum to Planning Policy Statement 7 on Residential Extensions and Alterations.
- Planning Policy Statement 7 ‘Quality Residential Environments’ was published in June 2001 and aims to promote quality in the design of new residential development. The Addendum now published aims to promote quality with regard to proposals for residential extensions and alterations.
- A public consultation draft of ‘Addendum to Planning Policy Statement 7: Residential Extensions and Alterations’ was issued in January 2007. In total 23 responses were received which influenced the content of the final policy document. A summary of the consultation responses is published concurrently with the Addendum.
- The policy applies throughout Northern Ireland, to any proposal which requires planning permission to alter or extend a dwellinghouse or flat, including those in multiple occupancy. Proposals for domestic garages, and outbuildings will also be considered under the provisions of this Addendum.
- The Policy Addendum and Summary of Responses can be accessed at the Planning Service website: www.planningni.gov.uk and copies can also be obtained from DOE Planning and Environmental Policy Group, River House, 48 High Street, Belfast, BT1 2AW.
- For media enquiries please contact DOE Press Office 028 9054 0014 or out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
