What is a side return extension?
A side return extension fills the narrow passage that runs alongside the back addition of many Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses. It widens a galley kitchen into a proper kitchen-diner, usually with a sloping glazed roof to keep the room bright.
How much does a side return extension cost in Banbridge?
In Banbridge, a side return extension typically costs £2,000–£2,850 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 12 m² project that is roughly £24,000–£34,000. Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Banbridge. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (8 m²) | £16,000–£23,000 |
| Typical project (12 m²) | £24,000–£34,000 |
| Larger project (17 m²) | £34,000–£48,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,000–£2,850 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Steel beams and propping of the back addition
- Agreements with neighbours on shared walls
- Moving drains and soil stacks
- Glazed roof specification
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 return extension in Banbridge?
Approvals for a side return extension in Banbridge follow the rules for Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland a single-storey side infill can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 metres high and no wider than half the original house; conservation areas need planning permission. Building control approval is needed before work starts.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing before work starts.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
On a typical side return extension we handle:
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Steel beams to remove the side wall
- Drawings and planning or permitted development check
- Foundations and drainage, including any build-over agreement
- Floor levelling, heating and electrics
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 14 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Banbridge
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Banbridge sits in County Down, about 12 miles north of Newry. We cover the whole of Banbridge, including postcodes BT32.
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 side return extensions in Banbridge
How much does a side return extension cost in Banbridge?
In Banbridge, a side return extension typically costs £2,000–£2,850 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 12 m² project comes to roughly £24,000–£34,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a side return extension in Banbridge?
Planning matters in Banbridge go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Do I need planning permission for a side return extension in Banbridge?
In Northern Ireland a single-storey side infill can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 metres high and no wider than half the original house; conservation areas need planning permission. Building control approval is needed before work starts.
Is a glass roof too hot or cold?
Modern solar-control double or triple glazing reduces glare and heat loss. Building regulations also limit how much glazing you can have unless the design shows it performs well enough.
How much space does a side return add?
Typically 1.5 to 2.5 metres of width along the back addition. It often turns a narrow galley kitchen into a family kitchen-diner.
Can I stay in the house?
Usually, though the kitchen will be out of action for several weeks. We plan a temporary kitchen area where possible.