Planning Approved — Can I Still Make Changes?

Planning permission finally approved — but after waiting 2 months, you realise you’d like to make a few changes.The drawings are now slightly different from what was approved.Do you need to apply again?

Not necessarily. It depends on what changes you want to make.

If the changes are minor and non-material, they may be dealt with through aNon-Material Amendment (NMA), rather than submitting a brand-new planning application.

What is an NMA?

A Non-Material Amendment is used to deal with small changes that do not affect the planning authority’s original decision.The key question is not whether something has changed, but whether the change would require the council to reassess the scheme as a whole.

Examples that may be suitable for an NMA

• Minor adjustments to window or door positions

  (similar size, no significant change to appearance)

• Small changes to external materials or colours

  (e.g. brick tone or render colour)

• Minor dimensional changes

  (such as a small increase or reduction in extension depth or height, subject to council judgement)

• Roof details

  (e.g. rooflight position adjusted, number unchanged)

Changes that are usually NOT suitable for an NMA

• A clear increase in overall floor area or building volume

• Additional storeys or major massing changes

• New balconies or terraces

• Changes that affect neighbour privacy, daylight or outlook

It’s also important to note that different councils may interpret changes differently, even for similar proposals.

What if the changes aren’t allowed under an NMA? We’re often asked:“What if the changes I want aren’t permitted under my existing planning approval?”

In that case, a new planning application may be required.

While this can sound daunting, it’s often more straightforward than expected — especially if you’ve already secured planning approval once.A revised application usually benefits from clearer design direction, a better understanding of council requirements, and in some cases no additional application fee.

The key takeaway:Don’t guess. Get professional advice early to determine whether an NMA is appropriate or a re-application is needed — it can save time, cost, and unnecessary delays.

#house extension #Non material amendment #Architect UK