Planning inspector refuses self-build plans near Heathfield

Plans for a self-build home near Heathfield have been turned down at appeal.

In a decision notice published last week, a planning inspector has dismissed an appeal connected with plans to build a new home on agricultural land to the east of Newick Lane.

The original application, which sought only outline planning permission to build a residential property on the site, was turned down by Wealden District Council in November last year due to concerns around its location.

In a report at the time, a Wealden planning spokesman said: “The limited weight to be afforded to the delivery of one unit … and the support to the very limited existing ‘rural services’ and short term economic benefit of the construction phase are significantly and demonstrably outweighed by the significant harm in terms of sustainability … and the residential development eroding [the] natural beauty of [a] nationally designated landscape.”

The applicant disputed this view, pointing to other nearby decisions where new housing was considered to be sustainable. They also argued the development would improve the appearance of the site and (as a result) the appearance of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

On top of this, the applicant also pointed to the district’s shortage of housing compared to national targets.

Ultimately, however, the planning inspector shared the council’s concerns, deeming the site to be unsuitable for housing.

In coming to this view, the inspector noted the other nearby developments referenced by the applicant, saying “there were greater opportunities to reduce travel by car in these other cases than in the appeal proposal.”

They also said the scheme would have a “harmful effect” on the character of the surrounding area.

As a result, the planning inspector dismissed the appeal.

For further information see application reference number WD/2023/1976/O.