Latest Planning Decision

Very pleased to say that a client of ours has secured planning permission for a major energy sector project in Plymouth, which is the last of five projects that PCL Planning Ltd have been advising them on since 2022. Our client, OFGEM’s distribution network operator, undertook a strategic review and identified a range of projects to improve site safety and efficiency, and ultimately provide an economic and reliable electricity network for customers. This review culminated in five projects (two in Exeter, two in Plymouth, and one in Torbay).

Our role started in 2022 with a series of initial planning appraisals of competing options and ultimately concluded with a suite of five planning permissions in place.

Many other excellent professionals were involved in these five projects, notably @DB3 architects as project lead. That is not to forget the role of Exeter City Council, Torbay Council, and Plymouth City Council in processing the applications in a timely fashion.

Whilst residential work is PCL Planning’s bread and butter, it is always an interesting case study dealing with other sectors such as energy, just to see how the public, officers, and Members react to non-housing schemes…

Well done to all involved.

Latest Appeal Decision

Planning consent has been granted at appeal for an altered replacement dwelling in Ruislip.   

The appellant had erected a replacement house without complying with approved plans, and the London Borough of Hillingdon served a Breach of Condition Notice. PCL Planning were subsequently appointed and recommended pursuing a S73 application.

The S73 application essentially sought to retain side and front dormers, a window at first floor level, and a central front door whilst making a few minor alterations. The Council argued that varying the condition would have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of the area, refusing the application.  

At appeal the Inspector agreed with the Appellant that variation of the condition would not have a harmful effect on the character and appearance of the area, granting permission for the revised scheme.

Image courtesy of Your Living Space

Latest Planning Decision

We are pleased to announce that Treveth Development has received Reserved Matters approval for an affordable-led scheme at Connor Downs, West Cornwall.

Construction will start later this year at Hedhas Tewynnow, Connor Downs, on 40 high-quality, sustainable new homes, and will be offered to people with a local connection through residency, employment, or close family.

Addressing the local housing need, a mix of one, two and three bedroom bungalows and houses will be available across a range of tenures.

Image courtesy of DesignDevelopment

Latest Planning Decision

Thrilled that clients of ours, Vistry Cornwall South West and Plymouth Community Homes Ltd, have secured planning permission for 125 affordable homes in the northern suburb of Plymouth known as Southway.

There have been aspirations to redevelop this former factory site for many years and numerous attempts have failed.

Part of the site is situated within the former Airport Public Safety Zone (PSZ) of Plymouth City Airport where development is restricted. The City Council's objective of safeguarding the former airport for future general aviation use needed careful navigation. As did the economic challenges of delivering 125 affordable homes in a viable manner whilst meeting the new challenges of Biodiversity Net Gain and Climate Change requirements that have arisen since this site was originally identified for development.

Overall, the proposal was found to be sustainable development, providing new affordable dwellings in an accessible location close to services and facilities, providing a good standard of accommodation whilst not prejudicing amenity.

PCL are pleased to have acted as agent in securing permission for these much needed affordable homes.

Image courtesy of DMA Architects

Latest Planning Decision

Planning and listed building consent has been secured at Dartmoor National Park's February planning committee for renovation and extension of Glebe House in Holne, Devon.

Glebe House is Grade II listed and birthplace of social reformer Charles Kingsley (author of The Water Babies). The thatched building had fallen into disrepair and without work, we would see the slow deterioration and loss of a historic asset.  It’s taken 14 months but great to see Dartmoor officers and Members appreciate the substantial efforts of our client in saving and taking the building forwards. 

Picture courtesy of Synergy Architectural Solutions

New MD Announcement

PCL Planning Ltd is pleased to announce that Alex Graves has become the Managing Director after David Seaton stepped down from the role. Alex will be supported by Stuart Houlet, who is being promoted to Planning Director.

Alex has been at PCL Planning for over 12 years, 7 years as a Statutory Director.

Alex says:

“It is an honour to take over the stewardship of PCL. I will strive to continue the work of David Seaton, and David Lobban before him.  PCL is in excellent shape, and I am proud of what the team is achieving. It is very much business as usual, and we will continue to provide a comprehensive approach throughout the planning process.

Our unfaltering willingness to confront challenges and complex problems with determination, adaptability, creativity, innovation, and honesty will continue to assist clients in making well-informed decisions to navigate the ever-changing planning system. We welcome the opportunity of continuing to work with you all in the future.”