What is a wraparound extension?
A wraparound extension combines a side return and a rear extension into one L-shaped addition. It gives the largest possible ground floor, often creating an open-plan kitchen, dining and living space across the whole width of the house.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Cambridgeshire?
In Cambridgeshire, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,350–£3,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £66,000–£95,000. Building costs in the East of England run about 6% above the UK average, and the figures for Cambridgeshire are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £47,000–£68,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £66,000–£95,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £91,500–£132,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,350–£3,400 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Drainage changes
- Access for materials on terraced streets
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Cambridgeshire?
Here is how the rules work for a wraparound extension in England. In England a wraparound extension combines side and rear elements, which normally takes it outside permitted development, so a householder planning application is made.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Design and planning application
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Building control completion
- Foundations and drainage
- Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
How long does it take?
Expect 12 to 18 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Cambridgeshire
Many towns in the East of England have estates built since the 1970s, where garage conversions and rear extensions are popular.
Towns we cover in Cambridgeshire include Peterborough, Cambridge, Wisbech, St Neots, Huntingdon and March.
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
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about wraparound extensions in Cambridgeshire
What about the old back addition?
The side wall of the back addition is usually removed and replaced with a steel beam, so the old kitchen joins the new space.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Cambridgeshire?
In Cambridgeshire, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,350–£3,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £66,000–£95,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can we keep a separate living room?
Yes. Many clients keep the front room separate and open up only the back of the house.
Who approves a wraparound extension in Cambridgeshire?
Planning matters in Cambridgeshire go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Is a wraparound worth it?
It gives the biggest ground-floor space without going upwards. Whether it adds value depends on your street and house, so we suggest checking local sale prices before committing.