Common Planning Issues in a new Residential Development

Planning a new-build housing development can be complex due to a variety of regulatory, design, and community considerations. With rigorous planning & research, these issues can be overcome to ensure minimum resistance and a successful completion of the project. Here are some of the common issues you might come across during the project lifyecylce:

1 - You might find it difficult to make a successful application if it does not align with local authority's strategic development goals and the housing targets. An understanding of the strategic plans is required to assess how your development can contribute to the housing shortage and add value to the local area.

2 - Inadequate road access for vehicles and emergency services or refuse collection can be a major issue. Highway safety concerns must be addressed ensuring adequate visibility at the junctions. Proximity to local schools is also important as it can raise objections. Another common reason for rejection / objection to the proposals is not meeting local authority's parking requirements.

3 - Design and layout of your project plays a crucial role in the success of application. Over development of poor density for example cramming too many houses in a small plot or not fitting in with the character of the area will play a negative role in the success of the application. Your project needs to have compatibility with the its surroundings as far as the design is concerned such as keeping with nearby buildings, rooflines, materials or street layout.

4 - Is the development proposal going to result in a strain on local services such as schools, surgeries and utilities? Proposal must include provisions or supporting evidence of the no impact on the services.

5 - Be prepared for the affordable housing obligations under section 106 agreement. Depending on local policies, even small schemes may need to make contribution towards affordable housing.

6 - Your project may be subject to political and community objections. Neighbours may object to the planning proposal due to concerns around traffic, noise and disruption during the construction. Parish or town councils often have strong influence and can sway planning committees. Even with the recommendation of approval from the planning officers, councillors can still vote to reject the proposal.

It is always best to start the discussion early. Let us charge of the negotiation and get the best results for your next project.