Demolition

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If you are planning to carry out the demolition of a building you may need to let us know before you start.

The Building Act 1984 (Section 80) requires that the Council be notified of the demolition of a building that is more than 50m³ in volume (about the size of a double garage).  Notification must be made at least six weeks before the work is due to start.

When notice of demolition is received, we will issue a counter notice under Section 81 of the Act.  This sets out various conditions that are intended to ensure that the work is carried out safely and with the minimum loss of public amenity.

The Act requires that no demolition operation should commence unless the Council has given the counter notice or six weeks have elapsed since notifying us.  This period is required to allow us time to consult and/or coordinate the views of other interested parties.  If applicable, we will endeavour to consult as quickly as possible and in many cases will be able to give a counter notice within seven to fourteen days.

It is the responsibility of the person intending to carry out the demolition to consult occupiers of adjacent buildings and the Gas and Electricity suppliers.

We are also required to copy any counter notice we issue to the owners and occupiers of any building adjacent to the demolition site, the Statutory Undertakers, and the Fire Service and Health and Safety Executive (if it is proposed to burn material on site).

Please note that Planning Permission may also be required for some types of demolition and in some cases you may also need to obtain a Party Wall agreement with any adjoining owner.