The district is braced for the impact of a three-year planning free-for-all which has just started.

The new rules, championed by Ongar MP Eric Pickles with the aim of boosting the building industry, let home owners extend the backs of their properties by up to eight metres without a formal application.

Only the immediate neighbours of the property must be told and council planners can only rule on the plans if they object, within 42 days.

Factors like the green belt, design and appearance cannot be taken into account.

Rules on developers converting offices to flats have also been relaxed.

Epping Forest District Council objected to the changes and its planning portfolio holder Richard Bassett said: “It’s all a bit of a mess and for people to understand what they can and can’t do now is difficult.

“We’re putting together a guide for council members and anyone who’s confused should call our planning department.”

For more details on the rules, visit www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk.