Planning consent for infill house in Bristol

DHV architects have recently obtained planning consent for a new build, 2bed house in South Bristol. The plot comprises the street-facing, bottom end of our client's garden. The client (not a professional property developer) spotted the potential and asked us to assess the viability of getting planning consent for a new, self-contained unit.

In this case the best option is to start the process with a pre-application enquiry. There is no set format for a pre-app, submissions range from a few simple sketches to a full set of planning drawings including a written statement. If the project is contentious it is worth enclosing good quality drawings (key plans and elevations) and attractive 3d visuals to illustrate the visual impact of the new development. Hand sketches (to suggest that the scheme is still 'work in progress') at this stage might be better than fully developed CGIs.

Infill developments have to fit their context and reflect the scale and proportions of the neighbouring buildings and the local urban grain. In this South Bristol project the design references elements of the local interwar housing (gable elevation, timber cladding, hip roof) and re-interprets them in a contemporary, crisp volume.

As well as a comprehensive set of drawings, we always submit a thorough Design and Access Statement explaining step-by-step the design rationale from first principles down to the finer details. Small infill developments are often contentious and most applications are turned down due to poor design and impact on the amenity of the neighbouring properties. 

After obtaining planning consent the clients decided to sell the plot at auction to maximise the financial returns. These plots are very sought after, as builders like to have a project “on the side” to keep their workmen busy during quieter periods. The auction was a success with the plot achieving 35% over and above the guide price.