Side extensions across Ampthill
Our design and build teams take on side extensions in Ampthill, from the first measured survey through planning and building control to the finished room.
- Guide price in AmpthillFrom £23,000 inc VAT
- PlanningSingle storey can be permitted development
- Build time10–18 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsMK45
Planning and approvals in Ampthill
In England a single-storey side extension can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 m high and no wider than half the width of the original house. Two-storey side extensions, and any side extension on designated land such as a conservation area, need a householder planning application.
Before any drawing is finalised we check whether the house is listed, in a conservation area or subject to an Article 4 direction.
If the work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 m (sometimes 6 m) of a neighbour's building, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notice must be served before work starts: two months for work to a party wall, one month for new walls on the boundary and for excavations.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
When a side extension makes sense
- Detached and semi-detached houses with side land
- Houses where the rear garden is small
- Homes needing a utility, study or ground-floor bedroom
Councils often prefer side extensions to sit slightly back from the front of the house with a lower roof, so the original building still reads clearly. We design to those principles from the start to avoid redesigns.
Working in Ampthill
Our survey diary covers Ampthill, including MK45. We also work in nearby Kempston (6 miles), Bedford (8 miles), Dunstable (10 miles), Leighton Buzzard (10 miles).
Just over the Buckinghamshire border, Bletchley is about 10 miles away. The East of England mixes market-town terraces, inter-war semis and modern estates. Clay soils are common in parts of the region, which can affect foundation design.
Guide prices for Ampthill
Prices below are for Ampthill, using the East of England factor of ×1.06. They are guide ranges including VAT for the build only, not a quote.
Typical rates in Ampthill: £1,860 to £3,600 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 m × 5 m 12 m² | £23,000 – £28,000 | £26,000 – £34,000 | £33,000 – £43,500 |
| 3 m × 6 m 18 m² | £33,000 – £40,500 | £39,000 – £51,000 | £49,500 – £65,000 |
| 3 m × 8 m 24 m² | £44,500 – £53,500 | £52,000 – £67,500 | £66,000 – £86,500 |
Want a range for your exact size? The guide-price tool takes about a minute.
How the project works
Site visits are free and there is no obligation. Where drawings are needed, the design stage is priced in writing before it starts.
Free site visit
A designer visits, takes measurements and photos, and discusses layouts, budget and timing with you.
Design and approvals
Once the layout is agreed, we deal with the council: planning permission or written confirmation that none is needed, plus building control.
Fixed written price
We confirm the build price in writing, based on the approved drawings and the finishes you have chosen.
Build and sign-off
Work is carried out to the agreed programme, inspected by building control and signed off at the end.
Side extension questions answered
Do you cover all of Ampthill?
Yes. We cover Ampthill and the surrounding parts of Bedfordshire. Site visits are free and there is no obligation.
How long does a side extension take to build in Ampthill?
On site, typically 10 to 18 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 6–14 weeks design and approvals.
Do I need building regulations approval in Ampthill?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
Can I build a side extension without planning permission?
In England a single-storey side extension can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 m high and no wider than half the width of the original house. Two-storey side extensions, and any side extension on designated land such as a conservation area, need a planning application.
How much does a side extension cost?
Our guide range is about £1,860 to £3,600 per m² including VAT, depending on specification, so a standard 18 m² single-storey side extension lands around £39,000 to £51,000 in Ampthill.
Book a free site visit in Ampthill
We will measure up, check the planning position and give you honest guide figures.
- Free, no-obligation site visit
- Planning route checked before you spend on drawings
- Written price once the design is agreed
- Building control sign-off at the end
Prefer to talk? Call 0800 088 6341 or .
Book a free site visit
Tell us a little about the project and we will arrange a time.