Grey Belt Site, Essex

Warner Planning submitted a Planning Application for the development of four family homes on an infill site located in Essex.

The site, a former paddock, adjacent to a farmhouse dwelling, is well positioned between the farmhouse and another  dwelling to the west.

Each of the proposed new dwellings will feature two parking spaces, electric vehicle charging points, and private rear gardens.

Initial discussions with the Council regarding the proposals were not wholly favourable due to its Green Belt location, however after the introduction of the concept of grey belt and the Golden Rules in the NPPF 2024, this site was then reassessed and found not to make a strong contribution to Green Belt purposes. Consequently, the proposal was for the development of identified grey belt land, constituting appropriate development within the Green Belt.

The Council’s Heritage Officer concluded that the proposed development would not adversely affect the setting of a nearby Grade II listed farmhouse, given the separation distance and the presence of two intervening properties.

The application was recommended for approval by the Case Officer, and planning permission was subsequently granted, subject to standard conditions.

AI CGIs For illustrative purposes only

Architect: Arch Two Ltd