Homz X Planning Portal Exclusive Partnership
Exclusive Partnership with Planning Portal At Homz UK, we are proud to combine expert planning consultancy, architectural design, and a…
A Collection of Resources Prepared By Our Experts To Help Your Project
Begin your renovation journey by reading our guides. Alternatively, contact us to learn more about the next steps in your process.
Featured Articles
What to Consider When Starting Your New Build Project
s your New Build Project feasible or what is the likelihood of planning application success…
5 Things to Know When Planning an Extension Project in the UK
Did you know that your kitchen could be a great extension to your home that gives you more space to enjoy…
Free Design Guide for Loft Conversions
A loft conversion can add a significant amount of money – up to 20% – to the value of a property
Navigating Change of Use Projects in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide
Change of use projects in the UK offer a significant opportunity for property owners and developers to transform existing spaces…
An Extensive Guide to Garage Conversion Projects
What do you use your garage for? Maybe it’s time to consider making better use of what could be a valuable asset…
Advice Articles
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Specialist Planning Reports Explained – What They Are and When You Need One
Why Specialist Planning Reports Are Essential In today’s planning landscape, a successful application often hinges on how well you address…
Goodbye Red Tape! How New Government Rules Could Transform Your Local Pubs, Cafés & Music Venues
Big news for anyone who loves a good café, bar, or music venue! The government is shaking things up to…
Cotswold Faces Rising Housing Targets – Local Plan Set for a Fast-Track Refresh
Cotswold District Council is preparing to rewrite the rules—literally. After recent government planning reforms pushed their annual housing target from…
How Much Does It Cost to Build an Extension
How Much Should I Budget for an Extension There are many things to consider when renovating or extending your home,…
PINS Promises Faster Appeals with a ‘Submit Once, Submit Right’ Approach
In a big move aimed at speeding things up, the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) has announced that written representation appeals —…
Burger Bar Owner Hit With Nearly £18,000 Fine For Ignoring Planning Rules
Running a burger bar might sound tasty, but doing it without the proper planning permission has left one South Tyneside…
West Berkshire’s New Local Plan Gets the Green Light
West Berkshire Council has officially signed off its updated local plan after a special meeting and months of back-and-forth. The…
Manchester Steps Up with New Collaboration to Deliver Homes That Work for Everyone
Manchester is taking another big step toward making the city more affordable for everyone. The City Council has just approved…
168 Homes Approved at Former Caledonian Brewery in Edinburgh
A well-known piece of Edinburgh’s industrial heritage is set for a thoughtful transformation. The City of Edinburgh Council has unanimously…
New Build Applications Hit New High: What Q1 Tells Us About the Year Ahead
The early months of 2025 have brought a wave of optimism to England’s housing landscape, with more than 70,000 new…
Khan Opens The Door To Green Belt Development In Bid To Tackle London’s Housing Crisis
Big changes might be coming to London’s Green Belt — and they could mean thousands of new homes. But what…
Breckland Searches for New Sites to Meet Housing and Clean Energy Goals
Breckland District Council is once again calling on landowners, agents and local stakeholders to come forward with development site suggestions—as…
Failure to Apply for Planning Permission Led to £250,000 Fine
In a significant case of illegal property conversion, Amarjit Singh and Jasbinder Kaur have been ordered to pay £250,055.80 under…
A New Chapter for Wandsworth: 620 Homes Approved on Former Gasworks Site
Wandsworth’s old gasworks site is officially getting a fresh start. The local council has given the go-ahead for a major…
New Vision for Wyndford: Hundreds of New Homes Planned in Glasgow
Something special is happening in Maryhill. The Wyndford estate—once known for its towering blocks and tight-knit community—is about to get…
230,000+ Homes Applied for Planning in Late 2024
A staggering 233,811 homes were submitted for planning permission in the final quarter of 2024. At first glance, this looks…
Dacorum’s Future Unveiled: New Plan Sets the Stage for Growth
Exciting developments are on the horizon for Dacorum! The borough has officially submitted its local plan for independent examination, setting…
Big News for Argyll and Bute: £70 Million Rural Growth Deal Signed!
We’ve got an exciting announcement—Argyll and Bute is set to receive a major economic boost! The Scottish and UK governments…
Breaking News: Oxford on the Hunt for New Development Sites
Oxford City Council is on the lookout for land that could help shape the city’s future. In a bid to…
What is the Difference Between a Care Home and Supported Living?
When it comes to providing accommodation for individuals in need of care, two common terms often come up: supported living…
Think Tank Pushes for Flexible Zoning to Unlock Homebuilding Potential
Big changes could be on the horizon for the UK’s planning system! A leading think tank is sounding the alarm,…
Revealed: 1.4 Million Homes Approved But Never Built—What’s Going On?
Here’s a headline that might surprise you—since 2007, more than 1.4 million homes in England have been granted planning permission…
Developers Rush to Submit Plans Ahead of Planning Rule Changes
Housebuilders are wasting no time. With major changes to the planning system on the horizon, developers have been quick to…
Change of Use from Class A1 to Class E: A Comprehensive Guide
In recent years, shifts in urban development, consumer behaviour, and planning regulations have transformed the way we approach property use…
Planning Permission for Nail Salons, Beauty Salons, and Thai Massage Spas: Navigating Use Class E and Local Authority Variations
Starting or expanding a business like a nail salon, beauty parlour, or Thai massage spa can be an exciting venture,…
Overview of Storage and Distribution Properties B8
B8 storage and distribution properties are essential to the smooth operation of logistics, ensuring goods flow seamlessly from suppliers to…
Change of Use from Residential to Class F1: A Comprehensive Guide
Converting a property from Residential Use Class to Class F1—covering spaces such as schools, museums, public libraries, public reading rooms,…
Change of Use from Class F2 to Class E: A Comprehensive Guide
Thinking about transforming a space from Class F2 like community halls, meeting places, and recreational facilities like swimming pools or…
What specific criteria should a Garage Conversion meet to qualify as a Permitted Development?
Hello there! As a Senior Town Planner, I’ve had the pleasure of helping many homeowners turn their garages into lovely,…
What is the 10-Year Rule for Retrospective Planning Application?
Have you ever wondered if a development built without planning permission can still be legitimised? The 10-year rule for retrospective…
27,000 Redundant Green Belt Homes Could Be Approved Under New Grey Belt Policy
New research has revealed a game-changing shift for over 27,000 homes that were once rejected because they were on green…
Grey Belt Explained: The Overlooked Land with Untapped Potential
When it comes to urban planning, most people are familiar with Green Belt—protected countryside that restricts development to prevent urban…
Common Pitfalls of Building an Extension Without Permission
Getting planning permission for that dream extension or for essential maintenance can be a nightmare. Planning regulation is complex and…
What is a Retrospective Planning Permission Made Under Section 73A?
Navigating granted planning permissions can sometimes feel like venturing into uncharted territory, especially when dealing with retrospective applications under Section…
Time Limits on Planning Enforcement: When Is Action No Longer Possible?
Imagine making changes to your property, only to wonder years later—can the local planning authorities still take action against me?…
Can You Appeal an Enforcement Notice?
Nobody wants to receive an Enforcement Notice, but if you do, it can feel like a serious blow. One day,…
The Ultimate Guide to Solar Panel Planning Applications in the UK
Installing solar panels in the United Kingdom is a fantastic way to embrace sustainable energy and reduce your carbon footprint.…
Can You Build an Extension Without Permission?
Are you considering adding an extension to your home but worried about the planning permission process? You’re not alone. Many…
Holiday Lets and Planning Permissions in the UK – NEW 2025 Edit
A Comprehensive Guide: How to Make a Planning Application for Holiday Lets in the UK The UK holiday let industry…
What Happens If You Ignore an Enforcement Notice?
Imagine receiving a letter from your local planning authority, telling you that your development is in breach of planning rules.…
How to Budget, Plan and Design a New Kitchen Extension
How Much Should I Budget for a Home Rear Side Kitchen Extension…
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Change of Use Applications: How to Ensure Your Project Gets Approved
When planning to apply for a change of use for your property to get planning permission, it’s easy to underestimate…
Many Homeowners Skip Planning Permission for Renovations
Have you ever imagined enhancing your home with a beautiful extension or loft conversion? You’re certainly not alone—many homeowners are…
What is a Planning Contravention Notice? Don’t Let a PCN Derail Your Project
Have you ever been surprised by a letter from the council, asking questions about your property or a recent project?…
A Complete Guide to the Planning Use Class Order
The Planning Use Class Order categorizes land and buildings by their permitted uses. This system helps manage development and reduce…
Steps to Planning Appeal a Refused Application for Change of Use Projects
Getting a planning application refused can feel like a huge setback, especially when you’re working on something as important as…
Change of Use from Class C3 to C4 HMO: Comprehensive Guide for Property Owners
Change of use from C3 to C4 can unlock exciting opportunities for property owners and property investors both. With shared…
What are the Special Considerations for Agricultural Properties
Agricultural lands present unique opportunities but come with a specific set of challenges when embarking on change of use projects.…
Change of Use for Mixed-Use Properties
Mixed-use properties have become a hallmark of vibrant city living, combining residential spaces, commercial units, shops, and businesses into one…
Why Hiring an Architect Can Help with Planning Architectural Drawings for Change of Use Projects
Changing the use of a building can be a really exciting project, but it can also feel a bit daunting…
Benefits of Seeking Pre-Application Advice for Change of Use Projects
Tackling a change of use project is an exciting opportunity to bring your vision to life, but it can also…
Can I Change the Use of My Property Without Planning Permission?
Change of Use planning applications can unlock incredible opportunities for property owners and developers, from converting offices into vibrant living…
Non-Material Amendments for Change of Use Projects
Getting planning permission for change of use of a building can feel like a big task, but it doesn’t always…
What is an Article 4 Direction, and How Could It Affect Your Change of Use Project?
Are you considering converting your home into a commercial business and service, or have you decided that an existing office…
Change of Use Conversion of Residential to Commercial Property
Interested in converting a residential to a commercial property? We prepared the essential information in this article explains why it’s…
Can You Develop or Extend Your Property in Green Belt Without Full Planning Permission?
Top Tips for Navigating Permitted Development Green Belt Rules Well, the short answer is yes, but it comes with additional…
Planning Drawings For Applications: Expert Tips from Our Architects
If you are looking to submit a planning application to your local planning authority, then you would know that planning…
How Long Does Planning Permission Take in the UK?
The process of securing planning permission for your project can often feel complex and overwhelming. Whether you’re working on an…
How to Best Use Your Space When Converting a House into Flats
Hello! I’m Beatrice, your architectural designer who loves turning spaces into stunning and practical homes. With plenty of experience in…
Understanding the Differences Between Planning Appraisal and Development Appraisal: A Guide for Your Project Potential
Before embarking on any development project, it’s crucial to overview the feasibility studies of your ideas. Many clients start with…
Our Architectural Designer Beatrice Shares Designer Hacks on How to Best Use Your Garage Space
Hi there! I’m Beatrice, the Architectural Designer here at Homz, and I’m excited to share some of my favourite design…
Explanation of Industrial Property Classifications B2
If you’ve ever wondered about the ins and outs of industrial property classifications, you’re not alone! When it comes to…
Planning Fees Increase by 100% or More for Planning Applications in the UK
If you are following our Blog Articles closely we have previously written an article about the planning application fee increase…
Green Belt Explained: What It Is and How to Work With It
Greenbelt land in England is often viewed as a pristine expanse of countryside, dedicated to preserving natural beauty and preventing…
Retrospective Planning Permission: Do You Need Planning Permission If You’ve Built Without Planning Approval
When it comes to property development, securing the necessary permissions beforehand is crucial. However, there are times when work has…
All Things You Need to Know About HMO Licences: A Comprehensive Guide to HMO Licensing and Certifications
As a private landlord, maximising your rental income is essential. Letting out properties to multiple tenants can be an attractive…
10 Critical Reasons Your HMO Conversion Planning Permission Could Be Rejected: Don’t Apply Without Learning These! – Homz UK
Investing in an HMO property can be a lucrative opportunity, but getting planning permission is a crucial step that can…
Steps for Applying Under Sui Generis Classification
Have you ever wondered what happens when your project doesn’t quite fit into the usual town and country planning class…
What to Know About the Planning Consents for the Change of Use Applications
Change of use planning applications in the UK represent a vital aspect of urban development and property use. Whether it’s…
What Is The Success Rate Of The Retrospective Planning Application?
Planning permissions retrospectively can be a tricky part of property development, especially when you realise too late that something has…
Why Hiring an Architect Can Help with Planning Architectural Drawings for Retrospective Planning Applications
Securing retrospective planning permission can be a difficult process, particularly if the modifications you’ve made don’t fully comply with planning…
Clarkson’s Clause: A New Era for Rural Development
Understanding Clarkson’s Clause Change of use refers to the process of altering the designated purpose of a building or land,…
Current Government Policies and Updates for Change of Use Projects
When it comes to transforming a property for a new purpose, government policies surrounding Change of Use projects are more…
“Received an Enforcement Notice From The Council, What Should I Do Now?”
You might be wondering, “Why am I receiving a notice from the council regarding my project?” We know that receiving…
The Truth Behind “Success-Guaranteed” Planning Permission Companies
We come across this question sometimes from our clients: “Can you guarantee planning permission approval?” The short answer is “No.”…
Can You Appeal a Retrospective Planning Application Refusal?
Navigating planning permissions can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with retrospective planning permissions, where the stakes are even higher.…
Shop to Residential Conversion Guide: Class E to Residential Use (C3)
Are you living in an unused commercial building? Or perhaps you’ve been wondering how to unlock its outstanding natural beauty…
What Is Restrospective Planning Permission?
What Is Retrospective Planning Permission, And Could It Help Me? What is retrospective planning permission, and could it be an…
Barn Conversions: Everything You Need to Know About Class Q Planning
Barn conversions have captured the imagination of homeowners and developers alike, blending the timeless charm of the rustic architecture of…
Homz Has Been Named As ‘Planning Consultancy of the Year’
CorporateLiveWire Global Awards 2024/25 Named Homz UK as the ‘Planning Consultancy of the Year’ We are thrilled to announce that…
A Guide To Loft Conversions
A loft conversion can add a significant amount of money – up to 20% – to the value of a property.…
Top 5 Kitchen Extension Ideas
You can get the most out of the space you have by adding a kitchen extension.
Party Wall Awards
The party wall process can be complex to navigate but with good communication, sound advice and suitable planning much of…
New! – Navigating the Regulatory Landscape of HMO Consents in the UK: Understanding HMO Licensing vs. Planning Permission
Navigating the Regulatory Landscape of HMO Consents in the UK: Understanding HMO Licensing vs. Planning Permission (2025) Navigating the…
Planning Fee Increases 2025 in the UK: All You Need To Know
Proposed Planning Fee Increases for 2025 in the UK: Key Highlights and FAQs The UK government has proposed significant changes…
Celebration Of Our Anniversary with an Award!
Elevating Excellence; Celebrating Another Year of Accomplishments As we start another exciting month, we are excited to share…
Our New YouTube Channel is LIVE!
Are you looking for more information about Planning Applications in the UK? We have crafted informative videos that comprehensively explain…