RBKC Planning Permission for a Home Extension

RBKC and its neighbourhoods

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea covers some of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, including Kensington, Chelsea, Notting Hill and Holland Park. It has comprehensive conservation-area coverage, a large number of listed buildings, and a reputation for rigorous planning and conservation policy, including well-developed basement controls.

Do you need permission in RBKC?

Whether an extension needs permission depends on the property. Permitted development rights for houses are frequently restricted in RBKC’s conservation areas and do not apply to flats and maisonettes, which make up much of the borough’s housing. The position should be confirmed for the specific address.

Basements and RBKC policy

RBKC has specific basement policies that limit the depth and extent of below-ground development, restrict building under gardens, and require supporting reports on matters such as structure, hydrology and construction impact. Basement feasibility must be tested against this policy from the outset, and party wall processes are almost always engaged.

How RBKC assesses proposals

RBKC assesses home extensions against its local plan and conservation-area appraisals, with particular attention to design quality, heritage impact and the effect on neighbours. Design expectations are high, and proposals are scrutinised closely, so a well-presented, policy-aware application is important. Approval cannot be guaranteed.

What to prepare

An RBKC application typically requires existing and proposed plans, elevations and sections, site and location plans, and supporting statements for sensitive or heritage proposals; basement schemes require additional technical reports. Pre-application advice can be valuable for larger or sensitive proposals. We prepare the drawings and supporting information and coordinate the specialist input required.

Frequently asked questions

Is RBKC stricter on basements?

RBKC has specific, well-developed basement policies that limit depth and extent and require supporting reports. Basement feasibility must be assessed against this policy and the relevant ground and party wall considerations.

Are design standards higher in RBKC?

RBKC is known for rigorous planning and conservation policy and high design expectations, so proposals are assessed closely. A well-prepared, policy-aware application is important, though approval is never guaranteed.