EDITOR’S LETTER
If you’re undertaking a building project and working from home at present, I’m sure you’ll agree this comes with both its benefits and challenges. Being on site to answer questions as they come up and to receive deliveries are two advantages. Juggling heightened H&S requirements, noise, dust and disruption, on the other hand, are not so ideal.
We can certainly relate. A number of members of the Homebuilding team are currently in the throes of building work, and I couldn’t help but smile when one recent virtual team meeting played out like a scene from Carry on Homebuilding (were there ever to be such a thing). Our Production Editor Jacob duly hit mute as the sound of his new kitchen being fitted hit a crescendo, while a door bell signalled the arrival of Assistant Editor Amy’s new doors. George, my ‘guard’ dog (pictured looking docile, left), also happily chimed in, barking his own chorus each time a tradesperson walked past the window.
This all brings me to a new column we’re launching this month. We wanted to lift the bonnet on the reality of living through a building project — the good, the bad and the ugly. Step in our Associate Editor Natasha Brinsmead, who will be providing an honest account of her DIY renovation over the coming months, and revealing the lessons she’s learnt. This month, she reflects on the highs and lows, and passes on her hard-won wisdom.
Also in this issue, planning consultant Ken Dijksman delivers the second part of his nononsense guide to planning permission. This month he details what you need to know before applying and explains what happens once your application has been submitted.
On a final note, if you’re in need of answers to your planning permission questions, or have any queries about your self-build, renovation or extension project for that matter, remember to put our virtual Spring Homebuilding & Renovating Show, 24-25 April, in your diary. As well as providing an opportunity to speak with experts and key suppliers, there will be a host of seminars and masterclasses on offer, too. You can find out more and register for this free virtual event at: www.futureevents.uk/springvirtualhbr