Planning Approval for a Replacement Dwelling on Mersea Island

ADP are delighted with a recent planning permission which will enable the replacement of an existing dwelling on Mersea Island.The site is located outside of a defined settlement boundary on the Council’s adopted Proposals Map. The Council’s planning policy position does allow replacement dwellings in such locations, but there are a number of criteria that need to be complied with, relating to design approach, context, scale, height and form, and landscape impact.

Our architectural designers designed a high-quality scheme that embraced the key characteristics and context of this island location, whilst still increasing the net overall area and size compared with the original dwelling.

Our positive design approach, together with our effective engagement with the Council ensured that this application had a smooth progress through the planning process.

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Planning Challenges with Replacement Dwellings:

Replacement dwellings are often allowed in countryside locations, however, local planning policies and circumstances can vary considerably, for example one local authority may allow a strict percentage increase in size, whilst others have a more subjective approach. This means that the allowable increase in net area, scale and height over the original dwelling can be different in different locations.

Other material considerations, such as planning history and case law, may also inform development parameters. The design approach for each replacement dwelling case will therefore need to be considered on its merits.

A Self-Build Option:

There has been a considerable rise in the number of people wanting to build their own homes over recent years, which has been supported by changes in Government policy and law. However, one of the main challenges facing a would-be self-builder is finding and securing an available plot to build. One of the most popular type of projects for self-builder is the ‘replacement dwelling’ approach.

Projects and sites such as our recent approval, would represent a good self-build option as the principle of development is often acceptable, with scope to development in a rural area, which would otherwise be resisted by the council planners.

About Us:

ADP has used its depth of skill and expertise to secure planning permission for numerous replacement dwellings in both urban and rural environments. If you require an architect to design your perfect home or new development project, or require specialist planning input, please do not hesitate to contact our knowledgeable team via mail@adpltd.co.uk.

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Uttlesford Local Plan Consultation

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Modifications to a Bungalow on Mersea Island