Are you looking to create a Granny Annexe in your garden, with no planning permission?

Here at Mobile Annexe, we understand the frustration of your local councils turning your planning permission away time and time again. We have made the process of building a Garden Annexe in your back garden seamless all over the South of England!

So how does it work?

We build all of our Garden Annexe's in such away that they confirm to the Caravan Act 1960. The Caravan Act, also known as the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960, regulates the use of caravans in the UK. Under the 1968 caravan act, granny annexes, garden annexe, garden rooms, caravans, mobile homes and transportable buildings are classed and treated as “caravans” for the purposes of the Act. This means that we don't

necessarily need to get your Local Council's permission to build.

We do, however, advise that in all cases a Lawful Development Certificate is obtained for peace of mind. this is a statutory document confirming that the use, operation or activity named in it is lawful for planning control purposes.

Why not just apply for Planning Permission?

Statistically there is a high chance that your local council will refuse the permission. By choosing Mobile Annexe your Garden Annexe can be 20 x 6.8 metres and have over 5 bedrooms, which typically would be refused with Planning Permission as the council require the style and finish to be "in keeping" with the area. Mobile Annexe will be able to accommodate any specific design option you may be wanting with little to no restriction on style.

What if my home is on a Greenbelt or Conservation Area?

You may be familiar with the 'Permitted development rights'. This is the allowance to construct outbuildings, extensions, or sheds, etc., without the need for planning approval. However, these rights are often restricted to properties within greenbelt and conservation areas, areas of outstanding natural beauty, or scientific interest. This does NOT restrict having an annex. The crucial fact is that the use of your Garden Annexe is NOT a permitted development right or even a 'development' as caravans are not 'buildings' or 'structures.' Therefore, this should not restrict the use of a caravan. There are some exceptions, however, such as if your mobile home is sited in open country land and is considered harmful to the greenbelt.

Similarly with Orchards, Paddocks and Woodland; If your garden is not clearly separated from other parts of your property, like an orchard or a field for horses, you will likely need planning permission. This is because the Council may not consider these areas as part of your home's domestic space, even if they belong to your property. Our recommendation is to separately apply for planning permission for 'change of use' to these areas to residential curtilage or garden. Additionally, the Land Registry can be contacted to confirm the registered 'use'.

In summary, Mobile Annexe offers a practical solution for those facing challenges with local council planning permissions for Garden Annexes across the South of England. By adhering to the Caravan Act 1960, we simplify the building process, allowing for the construction of spacious and customisable garden annexes without the typical restrictions imposed by planning regulations. While we recommend obtaining a Lawful Development Certificate for added assurance, our approach provides a viable alternative, especially for properties in greenbelt or conservation areas where traditional planning permissions may be difficult to secure. With our expertise, homeowners can confidently explore the benefits of adding a Garden Annexe to their property, enhancing their living space without the usual bureaucratic hurdles.