Demolition of Existing dwelling and construction of 9 apartments, Dore - Sheffield City Council.

NT Planning, was approached by a property owner in the prestigious area of Dore, Sheffield, to propel their project aspirations forward. Recognizing the importance of a comprehensive approach, we engaged a highly regarded local architecture firm to create initial plans for pre-application advice with Sheffield City Council, ensuring a solid foundation for the project.

Collaborating closely with the architects, we diligently addressed initial concerns and incorporated feedback, leading to a second stage of pre-application advice that provided our client with the confidence to progress to full planning. Throughout the process, NT Planning meticulously assembled a proficient project team, provided essential planning support, and efficiently managed the entire undertaking, including negotiations with Sheffield City Council, which had its own challenges due to the Covid-19 lockdown, resulting in significant delays.

Drawing upon our extensive knowledge of similar-scale developments in Sheffield and incorporating minor alterations, we secured a recommendation for approval from the officers at Sheffield City Council. The proposed development involves the transformation of an existing property into nine high-quality apartments comprising two and three bedrooms. Leveraging the central location of the previous property and the natural topography of the site, we successfully achieved a split-level design that harmoniously integrates with the surroundings. Moreover, the inclusion of designated parking areas, cycle storage facilities, and solar panels demonstrates our commitment to sustainable development.

The thoughtfully crafted proposals showcase a sensitive approach, considering site constraints and utilizing premium materials to mitigate the visual impact and break up the massing of the development. Situated in close proximity to the esteemed Dore Conservation Area, the project received a commendation for approval from the Planning Committee.

Regrettably, during the committee vote, the recommendation faced opposition, resulting in a narrow 5-4 decision against approval, with concerns raised regarding the impact on residential amenity and the adjacent Conservation Area. Determined to achieve a favorable outcome, NT Planning lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate, presenting a compelling case that highlighted the project’s full compliance with relevant policies and regulations.

The appeal was a resounding success, culminating in a momentous victory for NT Planning and our esteemed client. This comprehensive project, which we had been involved in from its inception to its completion, spanned nearly two years. The successful outcome not only showcased our expertise in navigating complex planning processes but also highlighted our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients.

Demolition of Existing dwelling and construction of 9 apartments
Demolition of Existing dwelling and construction of 9 apartments, Dore - Sheffield City Council

Client review

“After having a proposed scheme for three dwellings on my site in the south west of Sheffield turned down by the local planning office at Sheffield City Council, I decided to pursue permission for apartments on the site instead. This is in an area of Sheffield notorious for strong local resident opposition to new building proposals and so I sought support and assistance to try to enable me to put together a scheme for which we could get planning.

I was recommended to speak to Graham Northern at NT Planning, who together with his recommended local Architect, very soon formed an understanding of exactly what I wanted to achieve and together began to develop the scheme of nine high quality apartments that he felt would be acceptable in planning terms. These proposals were recommended by the planning department but overturned at committee.

After this huge disappointment Graham still felt sure that this decision could and should be overturned at appeal. I was extremely impressed with his hard work, knowledge and counter arguments in taking this all the way through the appeals process, resulting in the scheme being given full planning consent to proceed.

The way that Graham understood from the outset what I wanted to do and his professional expertise and knowledge in handling the project from initial ideas through to a positive appeal decision is to be commended.

I would have no hesitation but to strongly recommend NT Planning for friendly, helpful and knowledgeable consultation on planning enquiries / appeals, balanced against a fair and reasonable fee structure, and I very much look forward to working with him again on future projects.”