Our recent planning approval for 16 stylish and high-quality apartments in a sustainable location in Bexley, provides a prime example of the value planning consultants bring to a development project.
Strategy setting and development appraisal
Our initial review of the site highlighted its complex nature; a locally listed building with several refusals for residential development in its planning history. However, we felt that the development potential of the site was clear, that any planning issues could be solved or mitigated, and that through an incremental approach the necessary planning permissions could be secured.
Working with our client, the wider project team and liaising effectively with the local planning authority, we prepared a robust and policy compliant scheme. The first stage of this multi-phased project was securing the – given the sensitivities surrounding the local listing.
We did this through the preparation of a smaller scheme, which sought to convert the existing building into 13 architect designed apartments. Urban and Rural designed a scheme which supported and enhanced the existing building fabric and materials, limiting any impact on the street scene. Liaising with them and across a project team which included heritage, ecology, transport, land contamination, arboriculture and noise consultants, solutions were sourced and any planning issues mitigated.
A multi-phased approach to planning
With the key planning considerations secured, the second phase of the project was to enable the site to meet its full potential, with a larger, sensitively designed scheme. Once again, working closely with the project team we presented a robust and policy compliant scheme which will make full use of the existing site and building through sensitive conversion and extensions. This project will bring 16 market apartments with associated parking and amenity space to a sustainable location, providing quality housing and extending the lifespan of a locally listed building, regenerating its use, and preventing it from falling into disrepair.
About us
We are Plainview Planning – a solutions orientated, experienced and knowledgeable team of planning consultants. We have been providing considered and effective planning support on residential and commercial development projects since 2008. If you are seeking professional and informed planning support with your development project, then contact our team via enquiries@plainview.co.uk, to see how we can best assist you, providing the site address and a brief overview of your project. You can also submit your site via our Landmark Page. We value your privacy and any information which you provide will not be shared outside of our company and will only be used in relation to your enquiry.
IMAGE SOURCE: Urban & Rural 2021