In Britain, a mere 10% of housing completions stem from the self-build sector, compared to around 80% in Austria. Establishing why this figure is so low is key to increasing the country’s number of self-builders and based on the information available, planning permission fears may be the reason.
Many people would love to own a home designed and built to suit them, but the uncertainty surrounding applying for, and gaining, planning permission can put people off taking the self-build plunge. Concerns surrounding time, escalating costs and acceptance are the main causes of hesitance, so are there any solutions?
What is usually considered when applying for planning permission?
Councils consider multiple aspects when a planning application is submitted. Most obvious is the structure of the house, including its size, layout, and height. However, the appearance of the build is also often taken into account, with many areas requiring houses to complement their surroundings.
What can stop planning permission from being granted?
July to September 2018 saw 11,800 residential applications granted, a six percent decrease on the previous year, which may suggest that applicants are unclear of the guidelines they should follow.
Reasons for rejection largely fall into three categories; immediate neighbours, the surrounding built environment, and the natural environment. The neighbours category often includes problems such as the build overshadowing a neighbouring property, causing loss of light, and a reduction in privacy. In comparison, built environment issues can range from over-development of the area to the house’s appearance not matching the surrounding architecture. Finally, natural environment concerns issues such as the build having negative effects on nature conservation or existing trees and wildlife being impacted.
Is there a solution?
Graven Hill, a self and custom build development site in Bicester, has created an innovative solution called a Plot Passport, which sets out all the elements a build must follow. For example, the total size of the home, maximum gross internal area, maximum height, and acceptable building materials. Even the range of external finishes and roofing options are made available. Furthermore, for greater clarity, the main services to be provided, such as gas and water are listed on the Plot Passport, as are approximate ground conditions, minimising the risk of any surprises later in the build.
Not preferential planning treatment
Based on the plots being pre-designated, certain details can be pre-agreed by the council, meaning that as long as the guidance of the Plot Passport is followed, risk of planning being rejected is reduced. The local planning authority also offers a pre-application advice service, so each element of the passport can be explained to potential self-builders ahead of application.
If the plans for a build stay within the requirements listed on the plot passport, the time it takes for permission to be granted can be just 28 days – half the time of conventional applications.
Self-building is a great way for people to own homes that aren’t just short-term prospects. Removing people’s hesitancy by making the planning permission system clearer and easier to access will encourage people to build their ideal home, removing confusion and streamlining the process.
Karen Curtin, managing director, Graven Hill, the UK’s largest self and custom build community.