If so, you can apply to the local Council for approval of an outline planning application for the works that you are thinking about undertaking. The Council will look at your application and tell you whether or not they would approve it.

I strongly suggest that if you are buying a house and this is relevant to you, you should contact the Planning Department at the Council offices to discuss the issue further. Don’t forget that even if you don’t need planning permission for works, building regulation approval might still be required. The Building Control Department can tell you more about this.

Alternatively, ask your conveyancing solicitor for more information.