Planning Permission Secured for a Self-Build House in Essex
We are delighted that Tendring District Council has approved planning permission for a self-build dwelling in the rural area of North Essex, near Weeley.
The Self-Build Plot
The site of the self-build plot is located outside of a defined settlement boundary, within the rural area, but was closely related to a small scattering of other houses and buildings.
Self-Build Planning Policy
Ordinarily, Tendring District Council would have resisted development at this location, however we were able to demonstrate that the proposed self-build dwelling met their new self and custom-build planning policy, set out in the recently adopted Tendring District Local Plan.
Tendring District Council has proved to be one of the more pragmatic local planning authorities when it comes to self-build housing, as they have introduced a flexible planning policy that allows such housing to take place beyond the settlement boundaries, subject to meeting certain criteria.
The relevant planning policy states that self-build housing will be supported where these homes are located on a site safely accessible on foot and either within:
600 metres of the District’s ‘strategic urban settlements’, such as Clacton, Harwich and the Colchester Fringes or
600 metres from ‘smaller urban settlements’, e.g. Frinton/Walton, Manningtree and Brightlingsea or
400 metres of the edge of the settlement development boundary of one of the district’s ‘rural service centres’ i.e. Alresford, Elmstead Market, Great Bentley, Little Clacton, St. Osyth, Thorpe-le-Soken and Weeley.
We were able to demonstrate that the self-build dwelling for our client met the requirements of this policy, and the application was subsequently approved.
The Design of the Self Build Home
The design of the semi-build dwelling was influenced by the rural context in which the plot is located.
The self-build dwelling was designed with a relaxed and spacious layout to appear in keeping with the scattered dwellings within the vicinity. However, the appearance was deliberately designed to contrast with the closest properties to reinforce the clear built variety within this semi-rural location.
The introduction of specific design features, such as, the timber framed entrance porch, window cill and arch detailing and brick plinth enhances the overall appearance and quality of the development.
How A D P Can Assist Your Self-Build Project
Are you planning a self-build or custom-build home? Contact us at mail@adpltd.co.uk to find out how we can provide planning and architectural support for your project or use the form below:
