AssetSphere are experts in planning consultancy for agricultural and rural developments. Our planning team successfully secured permission for a temporary agricultural worker’s dwelling after an initial refusal. By combining agricultural appraisals, nutrient neutrality strategies, and legal undertakings, we achieved a positive outcome while addressing environmental concerns.
Project background
A mixed agricultural enterprise required on-site accommodation to support their sheep-farming operations, particularly during lambing season. Existing housing was unavailable, and no viable alternatives existed nearby. A temporary dwelling was therefore essential for animal welfare and business continuity.
The site lies in open countryside within the catchment of the protected Somerset Levels and Moors SPA and Ramsar Site, raising environmental sensitivities.
The planning challenge
The local authority refused the initial application on two grounds:
- Questioning the essential need for an on-site worker and the financial viability of the farm.
- Concerns over potential impacts on protected sites from foul water discharge, with no mitigation initially proposed.
However, without accommodation, the business risked serious operational difficulties.
AssetSphere’s approach
AssetSphere provided end-to-end support including:
- Agricultural appraisal: Demonstrated the essential need for on-site workers and confirmed financial viability, aligning with local and national planning policy.
- Nutrient neutrality strategy: Delivered a mitigation package including a Package Treatment Plant and new woodland planting, secured by a Section 106 Unilateral Undertaking.
- Planning evidence: Prepared detailed site plans emphasising the temporary nature of the proposal.
- Appeal representation: Submitted a robust appeal addressing both functional need and environmental impact, and engaged effectively with the Planning Inspectorate.
The successful outcome
The Planning Inspector allowed the appeal, concluding that an essential need existed for the temporary dwelling, with no reasonable alternatives available. The nutrient neutrality concerns were fully mitigated through agreed measures, with no adverse effects on protected sites.
Permission was granted for a three-year temporary dwelling, subject to conditions on occupancy, drainage, water usage, landscaping, and restoration. The client was very pleased with the appeal decision, which will play a vital role in supporting the ongoing growth and stability of their farming business.
The dwelling is set to be a single-storey wooden log home by specialist company, Norwegian Log. As well as enabling compliance with the planning regulations, this log home is an affordable and comfortable solution that can be ready for occupation within just a few weeks.