Clear Design

26/03/2026

There appears to be some of these already available on Amazon. Anybody got any experience of them yet?
Could be a game changer for those with listed buildings or roofs that aren’t south facing.

The UK government has announced that plug‑in solar panels will be available in shops “within months”, marking a new step in making renewable energy more accessible to households.

The panels are small, low-cost units that can be connected directly to a home’s mains socket, allowing households to generate electricity without specialist installation. Retailers, including Lidl are reported to be working with the government and manufacturers to bring the technology to the UK market soon.

Homebuilding & Renovating has learned that while Lidl is exploring selling the panels, the sale is not yet confirmed, but the retailer sees it as a potential way to help families manage energy costs and support net-zero ambitions.

📸Getty Images

03/03/2026

Even if you don’t need planning approval, often you’ll need a Certificate of Lawful Development and Building Control Approval.

This free online tool gave me an instant answer about my home's extension potential – plus insights on costs and planning risks

26/03/2025

Upcoming Changes to Planning Application Costs.

The cost of submitting a planning application is changing.

Alterations & Extensions will now cost £528 to submit an application to the local authority plus the planning portal service charge of £70+VAT

Proposed use - Certificate of Lawful Development (used for Permitted Developments) will be £298 + Planning portal service charge.

From 31 March 2025, the cost of submitting a planning application via Planning Portal will increase to £70+VAT

This reflects two key factors:
1) The UK Government's increase to statutory planning fees from 1 April 2025, which raises costs across the sector, for all parties.

2) Significant increases in the cost of processing planning applications,
including security, payment handling and associated fees, platform maintenance, and support services.

02/02/2025

Grand designs or simple solutions. Contact me for Planning & Building Regs drawings.

Have you got grand plans to change your home or land? 📐 🛠️

Before you start work, see if you need planning permission for your building project or to change the use of land or buildings.

You can check here: https://ow.ly/Tk4Q50QuTe6

24/01/2025

For some small extensions you may have Permitted Development rights which don’t need planning permission but you should get a certificate of lawful development.
I can help with plans and applications.
Building Regulations drawings may also be required.

Do you want to make changes to your home or land? You might need to apply for planning permission 🛠️🧱

Visit https://ow.ly/FSFO50R9eel to find more and what to include in your application.

12/12/2023

Our friends at see.g.i. have prepared this video of a recent commission. Get in touch if you need planning or building regs drawings for your project

31/12/2022

If you’re thinking of extending your home in 2023 this article may be of interest

From remortgaging to extension loans — there are a number of ways to finance your new addition. We examine the options available in this age of rising mortgage rates

18/12/2021

Considering an extension in the new year?
https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/ways-to-reduce-the-cost-of-your-extension?utm_campaign=socialflow&utm_content=hbr&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&fbclid=IwAR3k5W7zmiJNAc6J4AaYOkr86FEI9RHwjXACzdXG0C8PcbpOn5vXkOeEkFc

With labour and material prices at a high, it's never been more important to rein in the cost of your extension project. We ask the experts for their advice

14/09/2021

The conservatory was taken down and a wall between the kitchen & dining room removed. The new extension creates a larger kitchen & dining space - perfect for entertaining. Thanks to Home Improvements for a professional finish.
https://www.facebook.com/bladesandgeary.homeimprovements

04/10/2019

I provided drawings for this client to self build this garden gym

06/12/2018

The major extension to this property was at the back, but this porch canopy and render finish makes it stand out as the smartest house in the street. The client has asked me to add another extension to the front....watch this space. 😊