Anyone know about planning? (Diagram!)

[TheLittleFriend]

Our downstairs bathroom is attached to nextdoors and shares a roof. They are only single story. We would like to build an en-suite on top of our bathroom. Would this even be possible or allowed? Our architect seems to tell us what we want to hear and advice from the council is expensive! Thanks

It is likely that planning permission would be required as it would be 2 storey in height and on hte boundary.
Whether PP would be granted would depend on the impact of hte extension on the neighbouring properties, particularly the attached property. Would the addition block light to upstairs windows, or be dominant in the outlook from such windows? Would it result in increased overlooking or loss of privacy/ Would it harm the appearance of your property?
If there are other similar properties nearby, has this type of extension been carried out? If so check the planning records for those properties on the Council website. you should be able to see the plans, as well as the reports which assess the applications which should give you an idea of the issues being considered.

This web site is useful it assessing whether planning permission is required You should always check with your Council though as there are some things which can affect specific properties which may alter the outcome eg in a Conservation Area, New Build with permitted development rights removed etc

The ground floor extension might need to demolished and rebuilt if the foundations are sufficient to support another storey.

Might be worth chatting to your next door to see if they might also be interested in doing the same as the costs /inconvenience to each other will be lessened if you did it jointly.

Thanks all.
I think I’m going to see if the neighbours have considered the idea too. An easier and cheaper project if all done at once!