
16A Canns Lane, Hethersett, Norfolk.
Proposed Development: Two storey residnetial unit.
Following an initial planning approval for a new build single-storey unit the applicant wanted to maximise the development potential of the plot which was a former allotment. Having previously been turned down for a two-storey residential unit by South Norfolk and Broadland Council En-Plan were appointed to assist with this property development.
Hethersett itself is a village located in the county of Norfolk, England. It is situated approximately 6 miles southwest of the city of Norwich. Hethersett is known for its picturesque setting and is a popular residential area. The village of Hethersett has a rich history dating back to the middle ages. It features a mix of architectural styles, including traditional thatched cottages, historic buildings, and modern developments. Hethersett Church, also known as St. Remigius Church, is a prominent landmark in the village and has a history that spans several centuries. Hethersett is well-connected with good transportation links to Norwich and other nearby towns. The village offers a range of amenities and facilities, including shops, pubs, schools, and recreational areas.
The site itself is constrained by the adjoining Hethersett Conservation Area and the coniferous trees within it that are protected by the Conservation Area status and thus the development had to work around the route protection zones fro these trees whilst still placing a two-storey unit within a small plot and providing adequate parking and turning areas for two vehicles.
The planning application is for the construction of a two storey detached dwelling on a plot of land which has been used informally as an allotment, this has been an informal agreement with the landowners. The plot of land is open to the road. The site is within an established residential area, is bounded by properties of varying sizes including a chalet style dwelling to the north west, with a terrace of older cottages to the south west (rear), and with larger two storey detached dwellings to the south east. Two storey detached properties are located opposite the site. The area is characterised by established tree and hedge planting and there is an area TPO in place which separates the application site from properties in Whitegates Close to the south west.
The size of the plot was considered by the Planning Department as reasonable and adequate for the size of the dwelling proposed providing private amenity space and parking and turning space. The site also benefits from an extant permission granted under reference number 2015/0290 for a single storey dwelling. While the overall floor space of the dwelling has obviously increased being of two storey design, the footprint is not dissimilar, nor is the position of the dwelling on the plot to that of the approved extant permission. Concerns had been raised by the Local Member to the scale and design of the proposal given the cottages to the rear of the site and requested an assessment be made by the Design and Conservation Team. As a result of this request the Case Officer discussed the proposal with the Council’s Design Team and given the mix of sizes, styles and designs of the surrounding properties, no objections were raised to the scheme subject to the appropriate materials being agreed.
This appliocation did test our Planning Consultancy skills as the site is relatively small but e were able to midify the deisgn to suit using our in house architectural services. Utilising all the space available EN-PLAN were able to secure Planning Approval and improve the commercial value of the site significantly through the planning process as well as gaining planning permission (Application Reference2017/2452) for a more aesthetically pleasing residential unit. Poste plannig apporval we have been able to asist with discharging planning conditions as the application progresses to the building regualtions stage.
Useful Information on Residential Development and the Planning System
It’s well known that the UK is suffering from a housing crisis. The National Housing Federation estimates that in order to house everyone who needs a home we need to be building around 250,000 houses every year, in England alone. The stark truth is that only half that number is being constructed. So, if you’re keen to build a residential development of whatever size, how do you go about getting planning permission?
Choosing land for residential development in England involves careful consideration of various factors. The location of the land is one of the most critical factors to consider. Look for land situated in areas with good transportation links, amenities, schools, healthcare facilities, and employment opportunities. Proximity to major cities or desirable neighborhoods can also enhance the attractiveness of the development. Check whether the land has existing planning permission for residential development or if it is located in an area designated for future development. En-Plan have a wealth of experience in residential developement and rural planning that we can bring to bear on any project you may have.
Once you have your plans and digital mapping drawn up you must submit them via the government’s online planning portal [https://www.planningportal.co.uk/] which will direct your application to the appropriate local authority.
Further Information
Please call me contact us for a free no obligation consultation and let us take you through an initial planning appraisal to assess any potential site you have.






