Development Progresses: New Planning Application Submitted for Final Stages at Graven Hill
A new planning application has been submitted for Graven Hill, the UK's largest self-build and custom-build community. The application seeks permission for the final phases of the development, proposing over 1,300 new homes, along with community facilities, green spaces, and infrastructure [1][3][5].
Hybrid Planning Application
The application is a hybrid planning application that includes both full and outline planning permissions. Specifically, it grants full planning permission for 64 homes south of Anniversary Avenue East, with detailed landscaping, layout, and access. It also provides outline planning permission for up to 1,329 additional homes, a pub/restaurant, an extra care facility, allotments, public open space, and supporting infrastructure, with all matters reserved except access [1][3].
The outline element sets out general development parameters but does not fix the design or exact layout for each plot, allowing future Reserved Matters applications to define specific details for self-builders and developers. This approach aims to provide flexibility while guiding overall growth with community input [1][3].
Green Spaces, Infrastructure, and Design Code
The application also includes provisions for new green spaces and public open areas, new supporting infrastructure such as parking and access roads, and an updated design code. The new design code, developed through local consultation and expert review, aims to balance flexibility with community character and quality [1][3].
This design code will shape future development phases and incorporate feedback from residents and planning authorities to ensure cohesive and high-quality construction across the site [3]. The code promotes visual identity through varied rooflines, controlled terrace lengths, and landmark placements. It also includes integrated infrastructure such as designated areas for bins, bike storage, and parking squares [1][3].
Community-Focused Design
The plans aim to guide future growth with a balance of flexibility, character, and community-focused design. They include more play areas, new pocket parks, pedestrianized zones near Gateway Park, improved walking and cycling routes, and more greenery and biodiversity features. The new code includes eight street types, defined by materials, scale, boundary treatments, parking layout, and pedestrian movement [1][3].
Adrian Unitt, Managing Director of GHVDC, commented on the application, stating that it reflects the input of residents and partners and outlines the parameters for high-quality, diverse, and well-integrated homes [1][3]. The new Design Code aims to support individual design creativity, especially for self-builders, while ensuring consistent public realm quality across all tenures.
Next Steps
The next phase for self-builders will be Reserved Matters applications, which will define plot passports, street-level architecture, and self-build allocation. The new Design Code will be used to evaluate future planning applications for the Graven Hill development.
[1] Graven Hill Website [3] Graven Hill Press Release [5] Planning Portal Website
- The hybrid planning application for Graven Hill, the UK's largest self-build and custom-build community, seeks full and outline planning permissions, which would grant permission for 64 homes and propose over 1,329 additional homes respectively.
- The outline planning permission provides a general development framework, while the Reserved Matters applications will define specific details for self-builders and developers in future phases.
- The application includes provisions for new green spaces and public open areas, new infrastructure like parking and access roads, and an updated design code aimed at balancing flexibility, community character, and quality in housing development.
- The new design code promotes visual identity through varied rooflines, controlled terrace lengths, and landmark placements, and includes designated areas for bins, bike storage, and parking squares.
- The community-focused plans include more play areas, new pocket parks, pedestrianized zones, improved walking and cycling routes, and more greenery and biodiversity features, aiming to support individual design creativity while ensuring consistent public realm quality across all tenures.
- Sustainable financing and investing in the housing market, real-estate, and infrastructure development will be crucial for the successful growth and expansion of Graven Hill in the coming phases.
