Is my old planning consent still valid after 15 years?

In 1991 we got planning permission in a conservation area. The agreement stated that there was no finishing limit on the works, but that we had to have started building within five years. The application was for a loft conversion on the main property and a two-storey annexe, both of which were completed within the designated time; the annexe has been let and taxed since 1994 (although it is currently only single storey). In addition to the completed building, we also had permission for a two-storey extension on the rear of our house, which we are yet to construct. We have now saved up enough money to finish the works. Could you please tell us whether the original planning permission is still valid? Should we just put in a building notice and get going, or can the council stop this project going forward? When a planning consent has been lawfully implemented, it remains ‘alive’ almost indefinitely. As you started works within the (then) five year time limit, the planning permission will have been valid. is is as long as all of the conditions that needed agreeing and clearing within the council were signed off before building commenced. Assuming those provisos were met when you started the works on the loft and annexe, then the permission was lawfully implemented, and remains alive now.

Given the considerable passage of time, it would be prudent to apply to the local authority for a certificate of lawfulness. is will just establish the formal agreement that the completed works will be lawful. It’s simply a legal yes or no question. e council can’t revisit whether they like the design or think it fits with current policies, which have no doubt moved on a bit since 1994.