Side extensions in Newtownards: design, approvals and build
From the first sketch to final sign-off, we plan and build side extensions in Newtownards and the surrounding County Down area.
- Guide price in NewtownardsFrom £18,500 inc VAT
- PlanningDepends on the NI limits; checked at the survey
- Build time10–18 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsBT23
Local to Newtownards
Our survey diary covers Newtownards, including BT23. We also work in nearby Bangor, County Down (5 miles), Downpatrick (18 miles), Banbridge (29 miles), Newry (39 miles).
Northern Ireland's housing ranges from city terraces to large numbers of detached houses and bungalows on rural plots, many in render, where single-storey extensions fit easily.
Planning rules that apply in Newtownards
In Northern Ireland the Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 lets some single-storey rear extensions go ahead without planning permission, up to 3 m on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 m on a detached house, within height and boundary limits. Larger, side and two-storey extensions normally need planning permission from the council, and building control approval is separate.
Homes in conservation areas, areas of townscape character and listed buildings have tighter rules, so we always check the property's status and planning history before design starts.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Where work is on or close to a shared boundary, we agree access and protection with your neighbour in writing before work starts.
Building close to a public sewer needs the agreement of NI Water, which we check during design.
Applications are decided by your council, which handles local planning in Northern Ireland.
Who a side extension suits
- Houses where the rear garden is small
- Homes needing a utility, study or ground-floor bedroom
- Detached and semi-detached houses with side land
Guide prices for Newtownards
These guide figures apply our Northern Ireland adjustment (×0.86) to national rates. They include VAT at 20% and cover the build itself; design and council fees are listed separately.
Typical rates in Newtownards: £1,500 to £2,920 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 m × 5 m 12 m² | £18,500 – £23,000 | £21,000 – £27,500 | £26,500 – £35,500 |
| 3 m × 6 m 18 m² | £27,000 – £33,000 | £31,500 – £41,500 | £40,000 – £53,000 |
| 3 m × 8 m 24 m² | £36,000 – £43,500 | £42,000 – £55,000 | £53,500 – £70,500 |
Try the guide-price tool to see a range for your own size and finish.
Our process, step by step
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
It starts with a visit to your house to measure, check access and talk through ideas and budget.
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
We build it with one project manager, book the building control inspections and hand over the completion certificate.
Your questions about a side extension in Newtownards
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Newtownards, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
Will my neighbours in Newtownards be involved?
If a planning application is needed, the council notifies neighbours. Where work is close to a shared boundary, we agree access and protection with them in writing.
How long does a side extension take to build in Newtownards?
On site, typically 10 to 18 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 6–14 weeks design and approvals.
Can I build over my driveway?
Yes, if the foundations work and you keep any parking the council requires. Drains and services under drives are common, so we check before design.
How much does a side extension cost?
Our guide range is about £1,500 to £2,920 per m² including VAT, depending on specification, so a standard 18 m² single-storey side extension lands around £31,500 to £41,500 in Newtownards.
Book a free site visit in Newtownards
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.