What is an orangery?

An orangery is an extension with brick or block piers, large areas of glazing and a solid perimeter roof around a central roof lantern. It sits between a conservatory and a traditional extension: brighter than an extension, warmer and more private than a conservatory.
How much does an orangery cost in Neath?
In Neath, an orangery typically costs £2,200–£3,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 16 m² project that is roughly £35,000–£50,500. Building costs in Wales run about 8% below the UK average, and the figures for Neath are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (11 m²) | £24,000–£34,500 |
| Typical project (16 m²) | £35,000–£50,500 |
| Larger project (22 m²) | £48,500–£69,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,200–£3,150 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Heating and flooring
- Amount and type of glazing
- Size and shape of the footprint
- Frame material and colour
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for an orangery in Neath?
Before anything is built in Neath, we confirm which approvals apply in Wales. In Wales a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: up to 4 metres beyond the rear wall and up to 4 metres high, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary and no more than half the land around the original house covered. Wales has no larger home extension prior approval route, so deeper extensions need a planning application, as do extensions to flats, listed buildings and houses whose rights have been removed.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on an orangery:
- Design to suit the style of the house
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- French, sliding or bifold doors
- Flooring and decoration options
- Building control sign-off where required
How long does it take?
Expect 8 to 12 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Neath
Wales has many terraced valley streets, stone cottages and post-war estates, so extension designs are shaped by slopes, materials and local character.
Neath sits in West Glamorgan, about 7 miles north-east of Swansea. We cover the whole of Neath, including postcodes SA11.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about orangeries in Neath
Can an orangery replace a conservatory?
Yes. We can remove an old conservatory and build an orangery on new or upgraded foundations.
Who approves an orangery in Neath?
Planning matters in Neath 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 an orangery cost in Neath?
In Neath, an orangery typically costs £2,200–£3,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 16 m² project comes to roughly £35,000–£50,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do I need planning permission for an orangery in Neath?
In Wales a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: up to 4 metres beyond the rear wall and up to 4 metres high, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary and no more than half the land around the original house covered. Wales has no larger home extension prior approval route, so deeper extensions need a planning application, as do extensions to flats, listed buildings and houses whose rights have been removed.
Does an orangery need building regulations approval?
If it is open to the house or does not meet the conservatory exemption, yes. Most orangeries are treated as extensions and need building control approval, which we arrange.
What is the difference between an orangery and a conservatory?
An orangery has a solid roof around a central lantern and more brickwork, while a conservatory is mostly glazed. Orangeries are usually warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
