Timber frame extensions across Ampthill
From the first sketch to final sign-off, we plan and build timber frame extensions in Ampthill and the surrounding Bedfordshire area.
- Guide price in AmpthillFrom £22,000 inc VAT
- PlanningOften permitted development (3–4 m), or prior approval up to 6–8 m
- Build time8–14 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsMK45
Working in Ampthill
Site visits are available across Ampthill (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. Across the East of England many houses sit on generous plots, and single-storey and wraparound extensions are a natural fit.
Who a timber frame extension suits
- Contemporary designs with timber or board cladding
- Homeowners who want strong energy performance
- Sites where weight or speed matters
What should I budget for a timber frame extension in Ampthill?
These guide figures apply our East of England adjustment (×1.06) to national rates. They include VAT at 20% and cover the build itself; design and council fees are listed separately.
Typical rates in Ampthill: £1,860 to £3,600 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m 12 m² | £22,000 – £27,000 | £26,000 – £34,000 | £33,000 – £43,500 |
| 4 m × 5 m 20 m² | £37,000 – £45,000 | £43,000 – £56,500 | £55,000 – £72,500 |
| 5 m × 6 m 30 m² | £55,500 – £67,000 | £65,000 – £84,500 | £82,500 – £108,500 |
For a figure based on your own dimensions, use our guide-price tool.
Will the council need to approve it?
In England a single-storey rear extension can usually go up to 3 m beyond the original rear wall of a semi-detached or terraced house, or 4 m on a detached house, without a planning application, provided it is no more than 4 m high, keeps eaves to 3 m within 2 m of a boundary and, with other buildings, covers no more than half the land around the original house. The larger home extension prior approval scheme raises those depths to 6 m and 8 m, with neighbours notified and a 42-day decision.
The planning position for a specific Ampthill address depends on its history and any designations, which is why we check it at the first visit.
Building over or within 3 m of a public sewer needs the water company's consent, usually through a build-over agreement, before the foundations go in.
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).
What happens next
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
We visit your Ampthill home, measure up, talk through what you want and check the planning position.
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
With the design and specification agreed, you get a fixed written price and a start date.
Build and sign-off
We build it with one project manager, book the building control inspections and hand over the completion certificate.
Timber frame extension questions answered
How long does a timber frame extension take to build in Ampthill?
On site, typically 8 to 14 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 4–12 weeks design and approvals.
Will my neighbours in Ampthill be involved?
If a planning application or prior approval is needed, the council notifies neighbours. If the work is on or near a shared boundary, party wall notices may also be needed.
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.
Does a timber frame extension need planning permission?
The same planning rules apply as for any extension. If the cladding looks different from the house, permitted development’s matching-materials condition may mean an application is needed.
Is timber frame cheaper than brick?
It is similar overall. The frame can save time on site, but the cladding choice has a big effect on cost. Our guide range is about £1,860 to £3,600 per m² including VAT.
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.