My dream land has access issues, will this hinder my self-build?

I’m interested in a plot that can only be accessed via a seven-tonne weight limit bridge. However, the link is wide enough for large vehicles. Is this something that would stop experienced house builders from considering the site? I’m unsure whether there are other factors I’ll need to consider besides the inconvenience of using smaller lorries.

is restriction shouldn’t stop you from building. However, you’ll have to advise suppliers of the weight limit and it’s likely to add to overall costs. is limitation could mean several loads on smaller vehicles, or offloading and ferrying materials across the bridge – all of which will add time and labour (and therefore expense).

Consider using a building system such as timber frame. is is a lightweight yet strong material that should be relatively easy to transport, plus it avoids waste thanks to being prefab and offers very swift assembly on site. If a pump won’t reach, you should evaluate mixing concrete on site. It will certainly be a hassle but if larger materials such as roof trusses can get over the bridge, it’s not impossible to construct on a site like this.

Self-building can be a labour of love at times. Build It readers Chris and Margaret Swales overcame similar issues building in a hard-to-access piece of land, yet the result was a stunning, modern dwelling. You can read their story on page 47.