Dorset Council (Purbeck area): Chris Miell has secured planning permission to demolish a bungalow and erect two detached dwellings at Rabling Road, Swanage.
In January 2024, planning permission was secured by David James Architects for demolition of the existing dwelling and the erection of two semi-detached houses with access and parking.
Our services were engaged in June 2024 to pursue a revised planning permission for two detached dwellings, which would yield a higher GDV for the landowner. Chris reviewed the extant permission and noted that the description of development on the decision notice for the extant permission did not define the type of dwelling which was permitted. It simply permitted “the erection of 2 no. houses with access and parking…”.
On that basis, Chris advised the client that we should purse a variation of condition application (often referred to as a minor material amendment – MMA) as permitted by Section 73 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended). This planning strategy reduced the planning application fee payable by the client, and, more importantly, avoided the need to comply with the recently introduced BNG legislation.
The client agreed with Chris’ proposed planning strategy and we submitted a Section 73 in June 2024. To accompany the application, we prepared a supporting planning statement, which demonstrated that the revised proposals would preserve the character and appearance of the area. We explained that a small gap would be formed between the respective houses to provide detached dwellings, which would be consistent with a new development at De Moulham Road. Due to limited size of the gap, we argued that the dwellings would still appear as one built mass within the street, particularly so when viewed from afar and/or from the side (as shown by the 3D visuals). Consequently, the proposal would be consistent with the pattern of development within the local area.
Upon consideration of the application, the Planning Officer was supportive of the development, concluding with her report that “The alterations to the design of the properties are considered to be acceptable and would relate appropriately to the character and appearance of the area.”
The client was thrilled with the successful outcome stating “This is fantastic news! Thank you so much for all of you efforts, and David James Architects and his team too. Brilliant.”
If you have a would make changes to extant planning permission, then why not call Pure Town Planning on 01202 585524 or email info@puretownplanning.co.uk to see how we can help you.