House Extensions in Greater Manchester: What to Know in 2025
Thinking about creating more space without moving? A well-planned extension can unlock value, improve flow, and future-proof your home. Here’s how homeowners across Greater Manchester and Cheshire can plan a smooth, budget-smart project with Omry Building Contractors.
Popular Extension Types
Rear extension: Great for open-plan kitchen-diners and better garden connection.
Side return: Ideal for Victorian/Edwardian terraces; turns a narrow kitchen into a bright family space.
Wrap-around: Combines rear + side for maximum footprint and flexibility.
Double-storey: Adds bedrooms/ensuites upstairs while extending living space below.
Dormer/loft conversion: Gain a new bedroom, home office, or playroom with minimal footprint changes.
Every home and spec is different, but typical UK builds often fall into broad ranges. As a planning anchor only (not a quote):
Single-storey extensions: commonly £1,800–£2,800/m² depending on spec, glazing, and structural work.
Double-storey extensions: usually ~10–20% more per m² due to extra structure/services.
Loft/dormer conversions: frequently £35,000–£65,000+ depending on stairs, dormer size, bathroom fit-out.
Final costs depend on design, ground conditions, steels, services upgrades, finishes, and access. Ask us for a tailored breakdown and a fixed-scope quote.
Planning Permission vs Permitted Development
Many single-storey rear and loft projects can qualify under Permitted Development if they meet set criteria on height, depth, and materials. Others will need a full planning application and possibly building control approvals. Omry’s design team prepares drawings, handles submissions, and coordinates with local authorities so you’re covered from day one.
Tip: Even if PD applies, a Lawful Development Certificate is great for resale and peace of mind.
H2: Timeline You Can Expect
Design & surveys: 2–6 weeks (measured survey, concept, revisions).
Planning/approvals: 8–12+ weeks depending on route and council timelines.
Pre-start (party wall, structural calcs, orders): 2–4 weeks.
Build on site: 8–18+ weeks (size/spec dependent).
Omry keeps you informed with a dedicated project manager and milestone updates.
H2: Structural & Services Essentials
Steelwork: Opening up walls typically needs steel beams (RSJs) sized by a structural engineer.
Foundations & drainage: Ground conditions dictate depth and cost; we’ll test and design accordingly.
Electrics/plumbing/UFH: Plan circuits, lighting scenes, and heating early to avoid rework.
Thermal & airtightness: Better insulation + quality glazing means comfort and lower bills.
H2: Design Details That Elevate the Space
Rooflights or slim-frame sliders for daylight
A utility/boot room to keep open-plan areas clutter-free
Acoustic control where kitchens meet living spaces
Durable, low-maintenance finishes for family life
H2: Why Omry for Extensions?
Design–to–delivery: Feasibility, planning, and build under one roof.
Skilled trades & supervision: Joinery, plumbing, electrics, and finishing managed by one team.
Local experience: Projects across Greater Manchester & Cheshire with references and a transparent process.