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Filling in window - planning required?

10 replies

Puffthemagicdragongoestobed · 29/06/2020 11:44

We are planning to refurbish our kitchen, which will involve knocking down internal walls and filling in a side window.
We need to fill the side window so that we will have one full wall for kitchen cupboards. The house is a semi in a conservation area, the window is currently obscured and looking out the side of the house, overlooking our bins and the fence to the neighbours. It can be opened. We believe that originally there was a door, which was then replaced by the window.
Do we need any planning permission to remove the window and completely fill it in?

Many thanks

OP posts:
Ifailed · 29/06/2020 11:47

If you are knocking down internal walls, presumably you've engaged a structural engineer/architect - ask them.

Herbie0987 · 29/06/2020 11:56

Ask your local council, as you are in a conservation area. Each authority interprets the rules in their own way. If you are knocking down walls, electrics for kitchen you will need to abide by building regulations.

SoupDragon · 29/06/2020 11:56

I agree - you need to speak to the council about what being in a conservation area means for your plans.

Puffthemagicdragongoestobed · 29/06/2020 13:54

Thanks a lot. Will speak to our architect and the council.

OP posts:
BruceAndNosh · 29/06/2020 14:16

My friend wanted to block up a window for a similar reason, but not in a conservation area.
What they actually did was keep the window, but replace the glazing with ultra reflective glass, then block it up internally. From the outside it looks like a perfectly normal window. Inside they have the cupboards they wanted

Puffthemagicdragongoestobed · 29/06/2020 14:21

Bruceandnosh that's interesting, we did consider this as well. Good that this may be an option.

OP posts:
Zarara · 29/06/2020 14:29

Most probably doesn’t require permission unless the property is listed, you can double check with Council but usually falls under permitted development.

TheHighestSardine · 29/06/2020 14:44

You may be better off engaging a structural engineer rather than an architect, unless you're building out? They'll have more appropriate knowledge for load-bearing etc and will be considerably cheaper. And an architect will refer you to one anyway, probably.

Puffthemagicdragongoestobed · 29/06/2020 16:04

TheHighestSardine, we already have an architect involved as he is drawing up plans for a loft extension and ground floor extension anyway. Once we get started on the project we will involve a structural engineer and building control too.

OP posts:
MariaDingbat · 29/06/2020 17:01

I like @BruceAndNosh's idea. But as long as you fill in the window externally with the same material as what surround it e.g. red brick or render, then it shouldn't be a problem in a conservation area. Your local council will have a duty planner you can call and talk to to confirm.

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