Two storey side extensions



For information about the guidance on this page and how it should be applied, visit Using this SPD.

Where proposals deviate from the guidance here, the Council will need to be satisfied that proposals are high quality and not detrimental to neighbourhood amenity. Pre-application submission is encouraged.



7.7 Two storey side extensions

7.7.1

Where planning permission is required, proposals for two storey side extensions may be acceptable. However, they must:

  • be set back from the main front building line by at least 0.5m.
  • have a ridge height at least 0.5m lower than the existing house ridge line.
  • not include a separate entrance door in the front elevation.
  • not include an additional internal staircase, except from when justified in exceptional circumstances.

7.7.2

Where windows and doors are included, they must:

  • not be detrimental to neighbourhood amenity in terms of overlooking.
  • have similar proportions to windows and doors on the main house.




7.7.3

Where spaces between buildings are characteristic of the surrounding area, proposals for single storey side extensions should be set in by at least 1m from the side boundary.


7.7.4

Where homes have already been extended, consideration will be given to the cumulative impact on character and neighbouring amenity. This will not affect permitted development rights.


Two storey side extension, set in 0.5m from front building line and with a roof ridge 0.5m below the existing ridge line

Corten steel two storey extension in Southwark, by Studio on the Rye

This two storey side extension is not set back, and sits flush with the front building line. However, this deviation from the guidance would be justified, due to the proposal being of exemplar quality in terms of design and materials. Read more about exemplar design here.





Learn about the retrofit ideas above, and other retrofit measures, using the links below:





For information about the guidance on this page and how it should be applied, visit Using this SPD.

Where proposals deviate from the guidance here, the Council will need to be satisfied that proposals are high quality and not detrimental to neighbourhood amenity. Pre-application submission is encouraged.



7.7 Two storey side extensions

7.7.1

Where planning permission is required, proposals for two storey side extensions may be acceptable. However, they must:

  • be set back from the main front building line by at least 0.5m.
  • have a ridge height at least 0.5m lower than the existing house ridge line.
  • not include a separate entrance door in the front elevation.
  • not include an additional internal staircase, except from when justified in exceptional circumstances.

7.7.2

Where windows and doors are included, they must:

  • not be detrimental to neighbourhood amenity in terms of overlooking.
  • have similar proportions to windows and doors on the main house.




7.7.3

Where spaces between buildings are characteristic of the surrounding area, proposals for single storey side extensions should be set in by at least 1m from the side boundary.


7.7.4

Where homes have already been extended, consideration will be given to the cumulative impact on character and neighbouring amenity. This will not affect permitted development rights.


Two storey side extension, set in 0.5m from front building line and with a roof ridge 0.5m below the existing ridge line

Corten steel two storey extension in Southwark, by Studio on the Rye

This two storey side extension is not set back, and sits flush with the front building line. However, this deviation from the guidance would be justified, due to the proposal being of exemplar quality in terms of design and materials. Read more about exemplar design here.





Learn about the retrofit ideas above, and other retrofit measures, using the links below: