New window opening - what 'permissions' ?

ERICS_MUM

I want to put a new window into what is now a solid wall, to brighten up the upstairs landing.

It's a link-detached house separated from next door by the width of my garage. Next door don't have a window in their wall facing mine so I wouldn't be able to look in. The new window would allow me look down onto a corner of their garden that I can't see at the mo. (I have no desire to spy on them !)
I could put the window in higher so I can't easily see out of it, although not ideal.

So, do I need planning permission, my neighbours permission and anything else ?

It's a 1969 house, not listed and no restrictive covenants.

Thanks

EM

MX5huggy

I asked a Planner at a planning surgery this 2 weeks ago and upstairs Windows would require permission. But that's in a Welsh National Park, not listed.

Gloomendoom

You will need building regs too if it is a new opening.

If it needs planning, they might ask you to use opaque glass.

ERICS_MUM

Thanks both, very useful.

EM x

Hoploz

That would be Permitted Development. No PP necessary.

Info in Planning Portal says -

"You do not usually need to apply for planning permission for:

repairs, maintenance, and minor improvements, such as repainting window and door frames

insertion of new windows and doors that are of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the house (note - a new bay window will be treated as an extension and may require permission). If new windows are in an upper-floor side elevation they must be obscure-glazed and either non opening or more than 1.7 metres above the floor level"

Building Regs will need to be followed

I'd be interested to know if you could get around the obscure glass issue if the window was not at the top, at first floor level, but actually on the staircase half way up. I would argue that would be allowable, since it would not technically be 'upper-floor' level.

firefox1956

If its anything like where I live you seem to be able to do virtually anything these days without permission !!

jk0

I'd ask your neighbour if they object. If not, council will never find out, and there'll be no problem. If they do object, forget the idea in the interest of neighbourly realations.

Furts

Planners may say put in obscured glass.

Be careful with the workmanship if you go ahead. A badly formed opening, bad brick matching and likewise mortar and it could stand out like a sore thumb. Not a good point when you come to sell your home.

ERICS_MUM

If I go ahead I will use the same company that replaced all my windows years ago and did a good job including brickwork when changing a window to French doors.

Thanks again.

EM x