Granny annexe
Granny annexe, also granny flat, came into more common use from around the 1970's through to the 1990's. It simply describes an extension, annexe, outbuilding or addition to a main residence that is self-contained accommodation and suitable for an elderly parent to live.
Granny annexes as self-contained living units are likely to require planning permission, the term itself doesnt appear formally in planning law though relevant planning terms are "ancillary accommodation," "outbuildings," "annexes," and in certain cases "caravan"and "permitted development rights". The nature of the self contained unit in terms of its permanence can impact how it is dealt with in terms of planning.
Surprisingly perhaps some granny annexes may have similar considerations to static caravans if they meet certain criteria. The Caravan Act 1968 gives its definition of a caravan in section 13 as being a structure that is designed for human residence and can be transported by road with a width of 6.8 metres, a length 20 metres and 3.05 metres height. The structure must also not be permanently fixed to the ground. It is worth noting however that there were also changes to permitted development in 2023, and worth referring to The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc.) (England) (Amendment) Order 2023.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Camp.
- Caravan.
- Caravan site.
- Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960.
- Changes to permitted development in 2023.
- Controls on traveller development.
- Could microhousing tackle London's housing crisis?
- Green belt.
- Gypsies and travellers and travelling showpeople.
- Micro dwelling.
- Mobile home.
- National Planning Policy Framework.
- Outbuildings definition.
- Planning permission.
- Review of housing needs for caravans and houseboats.
- Revised planning policy for traveller sites.
- Tent.
- Tiny house.
- Touring caravan.
- The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc.) (England) (Amendment) Order 2023.
Featured articles and news
Shortage of high-quality data threatening the AI boom
And other fundamental issues highlighted by the Open Data Institute.
Data centres top the list of growth opportunities
In robust, yet heterogenous world BACS market.
Increased funding for BSR announced
Within plans for next generation of new towns.
New Towns Taskforce interim policy statement
With initial reactions to the 6 month policy update.
Heritage, industry and slavery
Interpretation must tell the story accurately.
PM announces Building safety and fire move to MHCLG
Following recommendations of the Grenfell Inquiry report.
Conserving the ruins of a great Elizabethan country house.
BSRIA European air conditioning market update 2024
Highs, lows and discrepancy rates in the annual demand.
50 years celebrating the ECA Apprenticeship Awards
As SMEs say the 10 years of the Apprenticeship Levy has failed them.
Nominations sought for CIOB awards
Celebrating construction excellence in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
EPC consultation in context: NCM, SAP, SBEM and HEM
One week to respond to the consultation on reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings framework.
CIAT Celebrates 60 years of Architectural Technology
Find out more #CIAT60 social media takeover.
The BPF urges Chancellor for additional BSR resources
To remove barriers and bottlenecks which delay projects.
Flexibility over requirements to boost apprentice numbers
English, maths and minimumun duration requirements reduced for a 10,000 gain.
A long term view on European heating markets
BSRIA HVAC 2032 Study.
Humidity resilience strategies for home design
Frequency of extreme humidity events is increasing.
National Apprenticeship Week 2025
Skills for life : 10-16 February