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Planning permission
Before you purchase the swimming pool of your dreams, it’s worth bearing in mind that the building of an outdoor swimming pool at your home may come under the category of ‘outbuildings for the purpose of luxury for the home’, therefore you may need to consider whether or not you will need planning permission from your local authority.

Because the weather in the UK is not exactly endless days of sunshine and blue skies, even a heated pool won’t allow you all year round swimming enjoyment. More and more people are opting to have a pool with an enclosure or outbuilding in order to enjoy the full potential of a pool in comfort and privacy.

Swimming pools of this nature are much more likely to require planning permission so you should always check with your local council before you sign on the dotted line.

If you are unsure about your swimming pool measurements check before hand with the manufacturer or installer what size and height your swimming pool and any additional associated structures will be and carefully plan the location of your swimming pool.

There are a few guidelines to adhere to when building your swimming pool and the following are instances in which you would definitely need to apply for planning permission for an outdoor swimming pool.

1. The pool will be nearer to any highway than to the original house it belongs to unless there is at least 20 meters between the highway and the pool. The highway is a term used for any public route including public roads, footpaths, bridleways and byways.

2. More than 50% of the land owned by the original home will be covered up by outbuildings and/or extensions.

3. The outbuilding in question is to be used for any commercial purpose including parking a commercial vehicle (Mostly this would not be applicable for a home swimming pool which is an addition used for personal luxury purposes).

4. The Swimming pool outbuilding or protective structure is more than 3 meters high above the ground (4 meters for ridged roofing).

5. Your home is a listed building and the swimming pool or outbuilding size will exceed 10 cubic meters.

It is important to ensure that your swimming pool complies to the above location and requirements restrictions before you go ahead and buy it as you could be in for a nasty surprise when it’s all set up.

Planning permission guidelines can and do vary from area to area around the UK, so if in doubt you should always ask your local governing authority before you decide on any definite plans for, or investment in a pool.

Expect a waiting period of approximately two months to get everything sorted out before work can begin on your new swimming pool installation.

It all sounds a bit daunting but as with any major build, its all in the planning and any reputable pool manufacturer, installer or builder should be happy to give you advice. After all, they will have had the experience from many previous projects.
Special features
Extras include streams, waterfalls, fountains, water features, water gardens or ponds with aquatic plants and fish.

Even a small space can accommodate attractive water features. Additionally, water gardens and ponds typically do not require as much maintenance as pools and spas.

Even smaller items such as tanning shelves, swim-up bars, spas and benches add to the environment around your pool. Let a pool professional help you decide how best to enhance your poolside.
Rock formations
Rock formations, with both natural and faux rocks, are another special feature for today’s pools. Builders can design a private lagoon-like area or the foundation for a spectacular waterfall by using various shapes and sizes of rocks to create natural, realistic landscaping. Flat rocks can be used to create seating areas, pathways, or steps. Builders can also provide spacing in stone structures for plants and greenery, creating more balance and impact in the entire poolscape. Landscaping also is a key component in the enjoyment of building a pool in your home.



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