Applying for planning permission for a modular built building should not be any more complicated than a normal build.

One of the many questions we are asked here at Wintech Modular buildings is how do you go about getting planning permission for a modular building. For those that are not familiar with the Modular/prefabrication principal see below for a brief explanation of modular buildings.

What are modular buildings
Modular buildings come in many forms, as many as traditionally built structures and can be used for single dwelling, housing, factories right up to high rise tower blocks. For a long time, it has been a totally different branch of the construction industry as it becomes more popular it has started to be absorbed into mainstream building and adopted as a construction method.

The difference is the construction method. Prefabrication takes place within a factory environment away from the final building’s location. The parts are constructed in modules and are shipped to site for the final assembly, so once all the sections are ready and shipped to site they can be assembled very rapidly. For smaller structures they can be erected in a matter of days as opposed to weeks and months for a brick built building. A permanent modular building will not only cost less to build but will also save money on labour costs.

Modular buildings are often used as temporary structures from a few weeks to many years. Depending on the length of installation will determine whether you need planning permission at all.

Useful Information

• No planning permission needed if the building is going to be there for less than 28 days
• If planning is needed , planning teams meet every 4 – 8 weeks so get in early
• Don’t skimp on the detail include as much as possible. Include how long the temporary structure is going to be there
• Temporary planning permission is not an option– full consent is required
• Planning permission is not required if the temporary modular building will be used while you refurbish your existing property

What you need to submit a planning application for a Modular Building (or any other building for that matter)

• The Planning Application Form
• Location Plan – this should show the site and how it fits into the surrounding area. •Standard metric scale 1:1250 or 1:2500 for large sites
• Should show the direction north
• Scaled to A4 size
• Should show roads and adjoining land
• Highlight the site boundaries and the access from the road by a red outline
• Also highlight any other land nearby owned by the applicant
• Site Plan / Block Plan
• Show all buildings,footpaths and roads on and near the development
• Show access points
• Show public rights of way
• Show trees both on your site and those surrounding the development
• Show the type and extent of any hard surfacing
• Show the boundaries including any proposed fencing
• Ownership certificate A,B,C or D need to be completed to show ownership of the property or land
• Agricultural holdings certificate ( this is needed even if the site does not have an agricultural holding) If there are agricultural tenants they need to be made aware before the application
• Design and access statement: design and concept outline how any issues with the design and development have been addressed and dealt with
• Application fee

Design and access statements
A design and access (DAS) statement is a short report accompanying and supporting a planning application. They provide a framework for applicants to explain how a proposed development is a suitable response to the site and its setting, and demonstrate that it can be adequately accessed by prospective users. For most straightforward planning applications, the DAS may only need to be a page long.