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When it comes to adding stunning wrought iron gates or railings to your property, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is whether or not you need planning permission. At North Valley Forge, we’ve been designing and installing bespoke wrought iron work for over 30 years, and we know just how important it is to make sure every step of the process is handled correctly – including getting the right permissions.
The good news is that planning permission isn’t always required for new wrought iron gates or railings. However, there are a few key factors you should consider before you get started. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials so you can plan your project with confidence.
Do I need planning permission for my gate?
So, do you need planning permission? Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as a yes or no. Planning permission can depend on a variety of different factors, like where you live, the size of the installation, and whether it will encroach on public land. Here’s a quick breakdown.
You’re more likely to need planning permission if:
- Your gate or railing is more than 1 metre tall (This is especially true if it also borders a public highway or is likely to obstruct traffic or pedestrians.)
- Whether your gate will encroach onto public land, as even a small infringement could incur costly changes.
- If your property is located in a conservation area or you live in a listed building or near one. In these cases, the local council will likely have stricter regulations for your property.
We’d advise checking with your local authority because regulations can vary by location and specific circumstances. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding any permits or permissions that may be required for your property, ensuring that you comply with local laws and avoid potential issues.
How to get planning permission
While checking whether you need planning permission can seem a little daunting, the process itself is fairly straightforward. As we’ve discussed, your first step is to check with your local council. Only they will be able to tell you if planning permission is required. Many councils offer easy-to-navigate planning portals where you can find out the specific requirements for your area.
If you need planning permission for your wrought iron gate, the process is typically quick and simple. Most applications take around 8 weeks to process, although for larger or more complex installations, this may extend to 13 weeks. To avoid any unnecessary surprises, it’s always a good idea to factor in the potential wait time when planning your gate or railing installation.
Why is planning permission so important?
We know it can be tempting to skip over the planning permission step, but we really recommend taking it seriously. If you make changes without the proper approvals, your local council could ask you to take them down, and that can be a real hassle and cost you a lot of money. By checking the rules ahead of time, you can make sure your project runs smoothly and that your beautiful new wrought iron gates or railings stay right where you’d like them!
At North Valley Forge, we understand that planning and designing your dream gates or railings is an exciting process. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s kerb appeal, increase security, or add a touch of elegance to your property, the possibilities are endless with our bespoke range of electric gates.
If you’ve either acquired your planning permission or ensured that you don’t need it, and you’re ready to start exploring our extensive range of wrought iron gates, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us! We’re always happy to help you bring your vision to life. To discuss your project or get in touch with one of our experts, just give us a call on 01282 677300 or send us an email at sales@northvalleyforge.co.uk.
