Chicken shed and outbuildings for a new dwelling

Project description: Demolition of existing outbuildings and erection of a dwelling

Project description: Approved

former CHICKEN SHED and outbuildings EXCHANGED FOR A HOUSE

Having been brought on board after a previous architect had received a negative pre-application advice response from the local council, I had to tell the client that the chances of getting approval for her dream house looked unfavourable. However, I suggested I had identified a recent planning precedent about land in the green belt which might persuade the council to interpret their planning policy in a new light…if she was willing to take a chance. She was.

I recommend a couple of potential new architects and she chose Lindsay. As a previous Director of a much larger practice, Lindsay brings with him a cool temperament and a keen eye for design, as well as the ability to work to a tight brief….it had to be spot on if we were going to get permission. I commissioned topographical surveys on the client’s behalf to work out levels and volume calculations before writing a detailed brief for the architect. Through a number of revisions, we agreed a design which had elements of the timber clad chicken shed which it was to replace together with modern balconies, windows and natural stone. It was neat in proportions and sits low in the site. We jointly wrote a Design and Access Statement to explain to the council’s planning officer, the process we’d gone through.

I also had to prepare a detailed Statement of Truth for the client to prove that the once chicken shed had since been used as a garage and the adjoining field was part of her garden for at least the last ten years. This was submitted to the council alongside a detailed justification statement addressing ecology reports, highways and design. It was precise even down to how far away the nearest bus stop is. Unhelpfully, national planning policies were changed by the government part way through the application, so another round of letters were exchanged with the planners and extra time was agreed for to them to make a decision. Approval was given three months later in autumn 2018.

One of the things I enjoy most about private client work is how meaningful it can be for people. Whether it’s a whole new house, a granny annex or even a relatively small house extension to provide an extra bedroom, it can be genuinely life changing for people. The sense of achievement and heartfelt gratitude it creates is really very rewarding.

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