Approval for new country homes on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds
Commercial Yard & Building | nr. Nettleton | Lincolnshire
January 2025: Fytche-Taylor Planning secures approval for three stunning country homes on the outskirts of Nettleton in the Lincolnshire Wolds.
In a notable achievement for our clients that makes use of under-used planning rules, Fytche-Taylor Planning have gained approval for a bespoke residential project just outside the picturesque village of Nettleton, nestled on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds. Having tried and failed with a different local firm, our team secured approval first time, and in just 8 weeks.
This project, which will see the conversion of an existing commercial building to form three new homes, underscores the benefits of using consultants that truly understand the planning system and how it can benefit landowners, together with preparation of a high-quality planning submission and the application of innovative sustainable design.
A Testimony to Meticulous Planning
The approval comes after Fytche-Taylor Planning prepared a meticulous planning case, combining a full planning application with a Prior Approval (Class MA) that addressed every aspect from the strict legislative requirements to the complex planning application requirements. The project, designed to blend seamlessly with the local landscape, aims to enhance the rural charm of the area while providing modern, energy-efficient living spaces.
"Fytche-Taylor Planning has always believed in creating homes that not only meet the needs of their future occupants but also respect and enhance the environment they are part of," said Matt Carter, Design Manager at Fytche-Taylor Planning. "Our detailed approach to planning ensured that these homes would contribute positively to Nettleton's community and landscape."
Design and Sustainability
The homes in question are designed with modern aesthetics that complement the traditional architecture of the Wolds. The approval process was a collaborative effort, involving dialogue our clients throughout, and with the local planning authority to ensure that all concerns regarding heritage and the rural landscape were addressed. This cooperative approach exemplifies how local planning can work effectively with developers to achieve results that benefit all stakeholders.
Looking Forward
With the planning approval now in place, Fytche-Taylor Planning looks forward to the next steps of bringing this vision to life. The construction phase is anticipated to commence later in 2025. This project not only adds to Fytche-Taylor's impressive portfolio of planning success but also sets a precedent for future developments in similar rural settings, proving that thoughtful, detailed planning can lead to outcomes that celebrate both heritage and modernity.
What is Class MA? The Class MA planning rule in England pertains to the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) and allows for the conversion of certain commercial buildings into residential use without the need for full planning permission, subject to specific conditions. Here's an overview:
Eligible Buildings: Class MA applies to buildings that fall under Use Class E, which includes shops, cafés, offices, and certain types of light industrial and service uses.
Conversion to Residential: This rule permits the change of use from Use Class E to Class C3 (dwellinghouses) through a prior approval process – but only where the strict criteria set out in the Class MA legislation is fully complied with.
Prior Approval: Before any conversion can begin, an application for prior approval must be submitted to the local planning authority. This involves assessing impacts like noise, transport, contamination, and the provision of natural light in habitable rooms.
There are numerous conditions and restrictions in Class MA: You should always seek professional advice from qualified Planning Consultants. Our team of experienced Planning Consultants are experts in this type of development and can lead your application effectively and efficiently.
External Changes: Any external alterations like adding new windows or doors would typically require a separate planning application as these are not covered under Class MA. Our experienced Design Studio can consider all options and show you how a the building could be converted
Duration: Once granted, there's a three-year window from the date of prior approval to carry out the conversion works.
Fallback Position: Case law has established in other permitted development change of uses that where there is a ‘real prospect’ of the change of use being implemented, it can be used as a ‘fallback’ position to allow new dwellings in lieu of the existing building. This is complex and requires very specialist knowledge of the planning system but our consultants can discuss this option with you.
Be aware: These changes under Class MA aim to encourage the repurposing of commercial buildings into residential properties, thereby contributing to housing supply. However, local planning conditions, Article 4 Directions, or other legal restrictions might still apply, potentially limiting or altering the application of Class MA in specific instances.
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