Cedar Planning Secure Permission for Dwelling in Lichfield

At Cedar Planning we were delighted to secure a much sought after planning permission for our client for a self-build dwelling within the Lichfield District area.

The application related to a new self-build dwelling on a site within an established residential area within Lichfield. The Council had previously refused planning permission, citing concerns that the proposed dwelling would:

• not respect the layout, character and pattern of development;

• the detached nature of the dwelling would be at contrast with the area;

• plot would be contrived and overbearing to neighbouring properties.

Our Approach

Cedar Planning was instructed following the refusal to reassess the proposal and provide a detailed Planning Statement and Sustainability Statement. In accordance with the development plan, we identified that infill development was supported in principle. However, there was still a need to identify that the proposal would be suitable for its surroundings.

As part of this, we carefully assessed the site's context and demonstrated that there was a varied built form, plot sizes and layout patterns in the neighbouring area. This includes a backland development, staggered building lines and a mixture of semi-detached and detached dwellings. Therefore, we could demonstrate that the site could accommodate a sensitively designed dwelling without causing harm to the area.

We also set out methodologically how the proposal accords with the development plan. We identified that the proposal was located in a highly sustainable location, with a range of services and facilities located within close proximity to the site. This includes convenience stores, schools, play areas and retail stores. In turn this would reduce the demand for private motor vehicles.

The application was also proposed as a self-build dwelling, which is explicitly supported by national planning policy. As a small site, the proposal can be built out relatively quickly, and would be well-suited for a Small and Medium Enterprise housebuilder, both of which gain support from national planning policy.

The Outcome

Following submission of the revised application, planning permission was granted for our client.

The Council accepted that:

• Infill development within established residential settlements is accepted in principle;

• The surrounding street scene is not characterised by a rigid or uniform pattern of development. There is a variation of plot widths, spacing, orientation and setback distances.

• In the context of neighbouring properties, the proposal would not appear unduly prominent or visually incongruous within the wider street scene.

Key Takeaways

This projects reinforces several important planning lessons. Firstly, robust Planning Statements can make the difference between a refusal and a much sought after approval. Similarly, it also highlights that a refused planning permission does not need to be the end of the road for your development project.

If you've had a planning application refused we can help.

At Cedar Planning, we specialise in:

• Reviewing refused planning applications

• Identifying weaknesses in the Council's reasoning

• Preparing strong planning statements and resubmissions

• Managing applications from start to finish

Get in touch today for a free initial review and a no-obligation quote.