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 Oldham?
In Oldham, an orangery typically costs £2,250–£3,200 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 16 m² project that is roughly £36,000–£51,000. Building costs in the North West run about 6% below the UK average, and the figures for Oldham are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (11 m²) | £25,000–£35,000 |
| Typical project (16 m²) | £36,000–£51,000 |
| Larger project (22 m²) | £49,500–£70,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,250–£3,200 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Amount and type of glazing
- Opening into the house
- Frame material and colour
- Heating and flooring
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 Oldham?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in England. In England a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: broadly up to 3 metres deep on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 metres on a detached house, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary, and covering no more than half the garden. The larger home extension scheme allows up to 6 or 8 metres if you notify the council first and neighbours have a chance to comment. In conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes the larger home extension route, side extensions and cladding are not permitted development. Flats and houses whose rights have been removed need a planning application, and listed buildings need listed building consent.
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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
Handled as part of most orangeries:
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- Design to suit the style of the house
- Flooring and decoration options
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- Roof lantern and glazed panels
How long does it take?
Expect 8 to 12 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Oldham
The North West has many brick terraces and inter-war semis, where kitchen extensions and dormer loft conversions add space without moving.
Oldham sits in Greater Manchester, about 6 miles north-east of Manchester. We cover the whole of Oldham, including postcodes OL1 and OL95.
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 handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about orangeries in Oldham
Can it be used all year?
Yes. With an insulated roof, efficient glazing and heating, an orangery is comfortable all year.
Do you build orangeries in Oldham?
Yes. We build orangeries across Oldham, including postcodes OL1 and OL95. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long does it take?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site once approvals are in place.
How much does an orangery cost in Oldham?
In Oldham, an orangery typically costs £2,250–£3,200 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 16 m² project comes to roughly £36,000–£51,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Does an orangery need planning permission?
The same rules as a single-storey extension apply. Many are permitted development, depending on depth, height and your house’s location.
