In the 1990s, new Government planning policy unexpectedly emerged seeking to resurrect the tradition of the English Country House. That policy, often termed ‘The Gummer Clause’ (after the then Secretary of State), has been maintained and varied many times and now finds its description at Paragraph 80 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). It is here to stay and states that isolated homes in the countryside will be permitted if the following circumstances apply:

80. e) the design is of exceptional quality, in that it:

– is truly outstanding, reflecting the highest standards in architecture, and would help to raise standards of design more generally in rural areas; and

– would significantly enhance its immediate setting, and be sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area.

The challenge in meeting these policy tests is considerable. The design bar is set incredibly high in seeking to attain a scheme that is truly outstanding or innovative. Expert guidance is required. Rural Solutions is the leading national planning and landscape practice in achieving schemes that become a reality in this discrete policy area. We are unique in providing both the necessary planning and design expertise in house. Our approach is one which enables all professionals to achieve a scheme that is more than the sum of its parts – one that is truly outstanding.