What is a garden annexe?

A garden annexe is a single-storey building in the garden with its own living space, bathroom and often a kitchenette, used by relatives, older children or guests. Unlike a garden room, it is built as habitable accommodation with foundations, insulation and services.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Colwyn Bay?
In Colwyn Bay, a garden annexe typically costs £1,650–£2,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £58,000–£91,000. The guide for Colwyn Bay reflects typical costs in Wales, roughly 8% below the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £39,500–£62,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £58,000–£91,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £81,000–£127,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,650–£2,600 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Drainage connection distance
- Kitchen and bathroom
- Heating type
- Cladding and finishes
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a garden annexe in Colwyn Bay?
The approval route for Colwyn Bay is set by planning law in Wales. In Wales an annexe with sleeping accommodation usually needs planning permission; outbuildings under permitted development must be incidental to the house.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical garden annexe we handle:
- Insulated walls and roof
- Glazed doors and windows
- Kitchenette and shower room
- Building control sign-off
- Planning drawings and application
- Foundations and drainage connections
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Colwyn Bay
Terraced houses in Welsh towns often have narrow plots, which suits rear and side return extensions and rear dormers.
From LL29 outwards, we take on projects throughout Colwyn Bay and the surrounding parts of Clwyd.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about garden annexes in Colwyn Bay
Who approves a garden annexe in Colwyn Bay?
Planning matters in Colwyn Bay go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Colwyn Bay?
In Colwyn Bay, a garden annexe typically costs £1,650–£2,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £58,000–£91,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can an annexe be rented out?
Not without further planning permission, as that would make it a separate dwelling.
Will council tax apply?
Annexes can be banded separately, though discounts or exemptions apply in some cases when occupied by family. Check with your council.
Does it need building regulations?
Yes, as it contains sleeping accommodation and services.
Do I need planning permission for a garden annexe in Colwyn Bay?
In Wales an annexe with sleeping accommodation usually needs planning permission; outbuildings under permitted development must be incidental to the house.
