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We are very pleased to have successfully attained planning permission for the client to change the existing split-level detached garage with basement to a commercial office via appeal. This result is particularly pleasing as it removes conditional ties to the host dwelling and comes in light of three previous dismissed appeals on the site for various uses, including office use (in the 1990’s).

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Principlanning worked positively with the Council on behalf of the client, engaging in pre-application advice, and continuing discussions and explanations of our perspective throughout the planning application.

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On this occasion, we were unable to persuade the Council from their perspective. The application was refused by the Council on inadequate sequential test and harm to the character of the area.

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The inspector was, rightly, not convinced by the Councils position. The sequential test was, as expected, not required as there was no harm to the vitality or viability of any town centre. In any case, the sequential test was deemed appropriate in remit considering the diminutive scale and close proximity of the site to the town centre.

Our case also found favour with the inspectorate in respect the impact on the character of the area, or lack thereof.

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See below links for information/reports on the case –

https://www.planningresource.co.uk/article/1695760/restricted-sequential-test-catchment-area-considered-proportionate

https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/ViewCase.aspx?caseid=3251295