A CHANGE in planning regulations to allow plans for larger home extensions to be submitted free of fees has been welcomed.

The relaxation of the rules means planning applications for ground floor extensions to the rear of domestic properties can be submitted free of fees – as part of the government’s attempts to kick-start the construction sector.

The new rules also double the size allowed for new single-storey extensions – from three metres to six metres in the case of a semi-detached house and from four metres to eight metres for a detached property.

However, neighbour’s approval must be sought – and the relaxation of restrictions only lasts until May, 2016. The plans must also be fully passed and built before the May, 2016 deadline.

Keith Womersley, of Honley-based Rosedale Draughting Service, said: “The aim is to get more builders working. More extensions mean more work for the building industry and its suppliers.”