Replacement Dwelling, Mersea Island, Essex

We secured planning permission for the demolition of an existing bungalow on Mersea Island, Essex and its replacement with a new contemporary home. The application site comprised a modest bungalow with some outbuildings. The replacement dwelling was designed as a high-quality, bespoke design that sat comfortably within the rural surroundings. The replacement dwelling was significantly larger than the one it replaced.

A common planning constraint involved with replacement dwelling applications is the built amount compared with the original dwelling. We put forward a robust planning case that demonstrated that the replacement dwelling met with adopted planning policy, was appropriate for the site and fully respected the character of the surrounding context.

This project actually represented a self-build housing development. One of the common ways in which to secure a self-build and custom build plot is through the replacement of an existing dwelling. Such projects provide the opportunity to create a high-quality bespoke dwelling to meet the individual needs of the occupants.