Planning issue and working with different set of plans If you want to know how your DIY projects could be affected by building and planning regulations, click here to post questions and view answers

[Amanda29]

We are doing a self build to live in ourselves and we are just about complete. However it would appear there has been 2 different sets of plans from our Architect. The ones approved by the council are different to the ones we have been working from. It now transpires that our chimneys are in different locations to the plans approved by the council. We submitted a pre planning app for the chimneys and they have said it will NOT be supported despite us showing that there are similar in the locality. We are devastated. Any ideas please

[stoneyboy]

Hi amanda29
You have not said why the council will not support the change.
If it is a building regulations issue eg: chimney too close to window, obscures daylight from a neighbour, then you are going to have to do something about it.
If it's a matter of aesthetics you could just leave as is and see whether any action is taken.
Regards S

[Amanda29]

Hi thanks for the response. They have said that the chimneys are not in keeping with the village as it is a conservation area but I have found at least 10 in the village that are the same style and positions. The council have chased us to either take them down or submit a full planning app so I can’t ignore it I’m afraid. They have constantly hassled us over every little thing as we have a neighbour that keeps ringing them. It has been an absolute nightmare tbh. We are literally at the end of our tether with it all. Any advice gratefully received

[stoneyboy]

Hi amanda29
You could submit plans but from what you have said they would be refused.
You could ignore the council and see if they take further action, ie take you to court for non compliance with submitted plans. Unless what you have done is blatantly out of keeping they are unlikely to want to waste money on this course of action.
Find out who your local councillor is and see if they are sympathetic to your case.
Presumably your architect was involved so they must bear responsibility for the wrong plans being used. They should have insurance to cover this error.
Regards S

[Amanda29]

That’s a great response. Thank you very much. Appreciated!!