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 Widnes?
In Widnes, a garden annexe typically costs £1,700–£2,650 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 35 m² project that is roughly £59,500–£93,000. Building costs in the North West run about 6% below the UK average, and the figures for Widnes are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (24 m²) | £41,000–£63,500 |
| Typical project (35 m²) | £59,500–£93,000 |
| Larger project (49 m²) | £83,500–£130,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,700–£2,650 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Access for materials
- Size and layout
- Cladding and finishes
- Heating type
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 Widnes?
Here is how the rules work for a garden annexe in England. In England an annexe used as living accommodation usually needs planning permission. Outbuildings built under permitted development must be incidental to the house, such as a gym or office, not a bedroom.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
Handled as part of most garden annexes:
- Insulated walls and roof
- Foundations and drainage connections
- Building control sign-off
- Glazed doors and windows
- External cladding or brickwork
- Planning drawings and application
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 16 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Widnes
Terraced streets across the North West often suit rear dormers and single-storey kitchen extensions.
Projects in Widnes (WA8) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about garden annexes in Widnes
How long does a garden annexe take in Widnes?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
Does a garden annexe need planning permission?
Usually yes if it is used as living accommodation. Outbuildings under permitted development must be incidental to the house, such as a gym or office, not bedrooms.
Can it be accessible?
Yes. Level access, wider doors and a wet room can be designed in.
Can an annexe be rented out?
Not without further planning permission, as that would make it a separate dwelling.
How much does a garden annexe cost in Widnes?
In Widnes, a garden annexe typically costs £1,700–£2,650 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 35 m² project comes to roughly £59,500–£93,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
