What is a side extension?

A side extension builds into the space beside a semi-detached or detached house, often over a driveway or side passage. It can be single-storey, for a utility room, downstairs toilet or study, or two-storey to add a bedroom above.
How much does a side extension cost in Bedlington?
In Bedlington, a side extension typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £43,500–£67,000. Building costs in the North East run about 10% below the UK average, and the figures for Bedlington are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £31,000–£48,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £43,500–£67,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £60,500–£93,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,400 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Single or two storeys
- Internal fit-out of the new rooms
- Boundary walls and access for materials
- Steel work where the side wall is opened
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 side extension in Bedlington?
Before anything is built in Bedlington, we confirm which approvals apply in England. In England a single-storey side extension can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 metres high and no wider than half the width of the original house. Side extensions of more than one storey always need planning permission, as do side extensions in conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes.
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 side extensions:
- Opening into the existing house
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Planning drawings and application
- Foundations and drainage alterations
- Structural calculations
- Survey of the boundary, drains and access
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 10 to 16 weeks on site depending on size and storeys. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Bedlington
The North East has many terraced streets and post-war semis, where rear extensions and loft conversions are popular ways to gain space.
Bedlington sits in Northumberland, about 3 miles west of Blyth. We cover the whole of Bedlington, including postcodes NE22.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 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 side extensions in Bedlington
Will a two-storey side extension look odd?
Not if it is designed well. Setting it back from the front and keeping the roof lower than the main ridge usually gives a natural look and is what most councils ask for.
How much does a side extension cost in Bedlington?
In Bedlington, a side extension typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £43,500–£67,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build side extensions in Bedlington?
Yes. We build side extensions across Bedlington, including postcodes NE22. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can a side extension go over a drain?
Often yes, with a build-over agreement from the water company or by rerouting the drain. We check this during the survey.
How long does it take?
Roughly 10 to 16 weeks on site once approvals are in place, depending on whether it is one or two storeys.
