Finding alternative solutions through Paragraph 139

A new contemporary dwelling on a site located outside the residential settlement limits which was granted planning approval under the little used Paragraph 139 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); a policy providing one of the very few exceptions where new isolated country homes are permitted.

This permission gained by Rural Solutions is only one of a handful that have been approved in England. With Paragraph 84e consents becoming ever harder to achieve, Paragraph 139 may offer an alternative solution. Whereas Paragraph 84e requires proposals to meet an ‘isolation test’, with new dwellings sitting separately to existing settlements, Paragraph 139 has slightly different parameters around design and policy compliance, with an emphasis on outstanding or innovative design that promotes high levels of sustainability.

Using our extensive experience in delivering exceptional country homes, we were able to secure planning consent for this home with a design scheme that was both outstanding and innovative, and promoted a high level of sustainability.

Photography (c) PlusVisuals

Objective

To achieve planning permission for a new contemporary dwelling on a site located outside the residential settlement limits.

Approach

Rural Solutions’ planning team understood the unique challenges associated with this specific project and determined the best approach to be via Paragraph 139 of the NPPF. The designs were required to demonstrate a significant level of innovation and sustainability, blending seamlessly with the overall form and layout of their surroundings, while simultaneously elevating these standards beyond the typical parameters evidenced in the local area.

Working alongside architect David Kirkland of Kirkland Fraser Moore, Rural Solutions put together a planning application for a home demonstrating outstanding and innovative architectural design, which allowed us to utilise the NPPF Paragraph 139. Meeting the policy's strict requirements on the levels of sustainability and standards of design was the critical success factor for this application.

“Congratulations to Duncan Hartley and Michael Gordon from Rural Solutions for their outstanding work in securing planning permission and overcoming huge challenges in the process. Their exceptional expertise and support were impressive, and I would have no hesitation in recommending them for any projects connected to planning.”

Client

Give us a call on 01756 797501 or email info@ruralsolutions.co.uk

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