Innovative and outstanding eco-development approved in th...

We have recently secured planning approval for an outstanding and innovative sustainable development, which seeks to raise standards both nationally and locally. The scheme sought the sensitive restoration of a 16th Century farmhouse and the provision of two Earth Sheltered eco dwellings.

Securing planning permission for new residential dwellings outside the settlement boundary and in the Green Belt

The site presented a number of planning challenges; located within the Green Belt, in a village without a settlement boundary and within proximity to a Grade II* listed building. Furthermore, the proposals to create 2x new dwellings in such a context were contrary to planning policy. But the project sought to create a small exemplar eco community and despite the restrictive site designations, we felt that the concept had potential.

Working with the visionary team at Barefoot Architects, our first port of call was a detailed review of the various design options, weighing these up against the site context and local and national policy considerations. This fed into preparations for a pre-application meeting with the Council, and through effective engagement with the attending planning officers this proved to be a fruitful exercise which assisted in the evolution of the final project design.

Given the sensitive nature of the site context, a robust planning strategy to support the proposals was vital and our planning approach included:

Pulling together a strong project team to ensure the eco credentials of the proposals;
Ongoing engagement with Parish Council and neighbouring residents;
Presentation of relevant case law and appeal precedents in regard to what defines a ‘village’ and and what constitutes ‘infill’ within the green belt;
Evidence to show how the proposals would not have undue impact on the character, appearance, or openness of the locality;
Justification for why the proposals should be approved, despite being contrary to local planning policy;
Evidence in regard to the LPAs lack of 5yhls and the importance of considering the ’tilted balance;’
Presentation of the sustainable qualities of the scheme in regard to the social, economic and environmental benefits.
Navigation of a change in case officer part way through the application process, providing a submission summary to aid the newly assigned case officer and being proactive in responding to any queries.

The approved proposal will see the sensitive renovation of the heritage asset; the visual enhancement of the site; the creation of two sunken homes with green roofs ensuring no net loss of green space; reuse of materials on site and utilising climate positive materials; significant biodiversity net gain; re-planting of a historic great orchard and shared spaces for a productive garden to promote sustainable food production.

Our strategic planning guidance, a visionary design from Barefoot Architects and collaborative working across a superb project team ultimately resulted in approval for this exemplar eco scheme. Congratulations to all involved!

Architects cgi of 2 eco dwellings and a refurbished farmhouse

About us

We are Plainview Planning, a solutions orientated, experienced and knowledgeable team of planning consultants. If you need professional and informed planning support with your development project, then contact our team via enquiries@plainview.co.uk, or call us on 01242 501003, providing the site address and a brief overview of your project. We look forward to helping you.

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.

As always, the content of this article was correct at the time of publication, but for the most up-to-date information on planning topics and policy queries, contact our team.

IMAGE SOURCE – Barefoot Architects 2022