The fragmented Dorset Heathlands are an important part of Purbecks tapestry of rich habitats across Purbeck, hosting a wide variety of protected species. Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace [“SANGs”] is a key tool in mitigating potential recreational pressures on the Heaths arising from new housing. SANGs are often delivered as an integral part of larger developments, […]
News
Two experienced Senior Planners join CLP
We are delighted to share the news of two exciting appointments in recent months to the Chapman Lily Planning team. Clare Spiller joined us in our Dorset office in March whilst Andy England joined the team in May, to head up a satellite office in Cornwall. Clare joins us with over 20 years public sector […]
Government launches ‘First Homes’ housing tenure
Planning Practice Guidance now has a new section all about First Homes. This is a specific kind of discounted market sale housing that falls within the definition of an affordable home and as the name suggests, is for first-time buyers. First Homes must be discounted by a minimum of 30% against the market value and […]
Assessing viability in planning
The new guidance note published by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) will apply, along with mandatory requirements, when carrying out viability appraisals for planning purposes. It is intended to guide not just professionals working in planning and development, but also members of the public. It builds upon the ‘authoritative requirements’ in the National […]
High Court judgement calls a halt to virtual council meetings
The Government has confirmed that from Friday 7 May, local councils in England will no longer be able to hold meetings online. Historically, planning decisions were made by councillors in face-to-face meetings under the 1972 Local Government Act. Under emergency legislation, the Coronavirus Act 2020 allows “persons to attend, speak at, vote in, or otherwise […]
Dorset Council announces a five-year supply in the former East Dorset area
For the first time in years, the East Dorset plan area is purported to have a five-year housing land supply. The recently published calculation shows a supply of 5.36 years, with a surplus of 169 homes. Commenting on the announcement, Steve Tapscott, Associate Director at Chapman Lily, said ‘no doubt the announcement will be welcomed […]