Build It

QUICK GUIDE Types of building plot

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Bespoke homes can be constructe­d on a range of sites, and knowing about the opportunit­ies can help you spot land with potential for your project. Here are some of the key options:

Brownfield sites This is basically previously-developed land that is or once was occupied by a permanent structure. Government policy supports the provision of new housing in such locations, so councils tend to look favourably on plans that have the potential to improve these plots. Plus, on a practical level, services are likely to be in place already.

Demolish & replace A type of brownfield opportunit­y where you could knock down an existing building, such as an old bungalow or former nonresiden­tial structure, and construct a new (usually bigger and more attractive) home in its place. It’s often more cost-effective than tackling a renovation, as VAT can be reclaimed on a new build project.

Infill plots There’s no formal definition of this type of site, but many councils take it to mean a small gap between an otherwise built-up frontage or group of houses. Infilling is usually allowed within settlement­s’ developmen­t boundaries – and sometimes outside of these. Gaining consent will be more difficult in zones such as conservati­on areas.

Gardens Contrary to the ‘backland developmen­t’ and ‘garden-grabbing’ headlines of a few years ago, planners still allow schemes on garden plots – especially in places that are considered to be built-up. You may even be lucky enough to have a large space that could work as a viable site already; or know a friend who is willing to negotiate a fair price.

Edge-of-settlement Depending on the maps marked out in the relevant council’s Local Plan, this kind of site might fall within existing built-up area boundaries or it might not. Generally, policies will allow developmen­t within this zone – but control it very strictly outside. This undevelope­d land is known as greenfield, and will typically only offer housing to serve the needs of agricultur­e, replacemen­t dwellings and some infill.

Serviced plots A fairly new option on the market, this term refers to land that’s ready to build on – with utilities, highway access and possibly other infrastruc­ture already in place, as well as at least outline planning consent. This route offers the benefit of more certainty over early-stage costs. FURTHER READING www.self-build.co.uk/serviced-plots

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