Project Description
Location: Sevenoaks – Kent
Project: Commercial
DOWSETTMAYHEW were instructed to secure planning permission for the redevelopment of industrial land to provide a 75-bed care home facility on land within the Metropolitan Green Belt near Sevenoaks, Kent.
DOWSETTMAYHEW have provided longstanding Town Planning advice. Following initially securing Lawful Development Certificates for the existing commercial uses, planning permission was secured for commercial redevelopment. Subsequently, we were instructed to secure planning permission for a 75-bed care facility and associated infrastructure.
The site is located within the Metropolitan Green Belt, beyond the Sevenoaks urban area and close to the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The site is also adjacent to a village Conservation Area.
Working with DWA Architects, and through extensive stakeholder engagement, DOWSETTMAYHEW have led on the preparation of the planning application, and production of extensive supporting documentation, including a detailed assessment of need for a care home facility and a sequential assessment of alternative sites. This has been intrinsic in demonstrating the necessary Very Special Circumstances to justify development in this Green Belt location.
DOWSETTMAYHEW have also undertaken extensive engagement with the local Parish Council to ensure the scheme responded to the feedback on design and impact. Initial objections in relation to highway impact and ground contamination have also been resolved through negotiation.