Our client wanted a substantial games room and family entertainment space in their generous rear garden (over 200m²). The proposed outbuilding measured 8m × 6m (48m²) with a dual-pitched roof using clay tiles to match the existing house, 2.3m eaves height and a 3.8m ridge. The structure comprised a timber frame with rendered blockwork, bi-fold aluminium doors on the south elevation, and two fixed windows on the east elevation. It was to be positioned 3m from all boundaries.
At 48m², this was a large building. The dual-pitched roof at 3.8m ridge was within the 4m permitted development limit but close enough to warrant formal confirmation from the council. Additionally, the client’s mortgage lender required a Certificate of Lawful Development before releasing funds for the build.
“The height of the building, enclosure or container must not exceed 4 metres in the case of a building with a dual-pitched roof, or 3 metres in any other case.”
We prepared a CLD application supported by detailed architectural drawings demonstrating compliance with every Class E criterion. A measured site plan with annotated curtilage coverage calculation proved that the 48m² footprint, combined with existing built form, resulted in total coverage of just 34% — well within the 50% limit. The supporting letter methodically addressed each condition under Schedule 2, Part 1, Class E of the GPDO 2015.
CLD approved by Buckinghamshire Council. The mortgage lender was satisfied with the formal certificate and released funds for the build. The client proceeded with construction confident in the legal position, knowing the CLD provides permanent protection on the council’s records. The detailed architectural drawings we prepared also served as the contractor’s build specification, saving the client additional professional fees.
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