Relocating the loft hatch opening

[JD65]

We have a loft hatch which is oddly placed directly above the stairwell. This makes for difficulties when trying to get into it. Someone has to hold the ladder, while the other person slowly and carefully climbs up it into the loft.

We're thinking of getting the hatch relocated to above the landing and have the current loft hatch boarded up.

Does anyone know whether this can be done quite easily? How much will it roughly cost? Also, is any permission needed to do this (e.g. notifying the council)?

 

[studips]

It's a good diy job - and you can fit a decent insulated hatch if you don't already have one.

it's only the councils concern if it's their house

moved mine (it was in the bathroom with very little head room in that part of the loft, so it's a mystery why it was fitted there originally)