Project Overview

Daniel White Planning Services was appointed to prepare a planning statement in support of a Lawful Development Certificate for the use of land to the rear of The Chequers Public House, within Epping Forest District. The proposal sought lawful confirmation for the use of the site for events up to 28 days per year and for a temporary campsite for up to 60 days per year under permitted development rights.

The site is located within the Green Belt and the Matching Green Conservation Area, surrounded by listed and locally listed buildings, requiring careful alignment with national and local Green Belt policies while ensuring compliance with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

Key Points of the Application
• Lawful Temporary Use Under Permitted Development – The proposal utilised Class B and Class BC of the General Permitted Development Order, ensuring the use of the site remains temporary, within the limits set by legislation.

• Community-Focused Activities – The temporary events, including village fairs, beer festivals, and seasonal gatherings, would foster local community engagement, enhance the village’s social cohesion, and provide recreational opportunities for residents of Matching Green and surrounding areas.

• Green Belt Considerations – The proposal was designed to have a light-touch, temporary impact on the Green Belt, ensuring openness and rural character are preserved while allowing the site to contribute to local community vibrancy.

• Conservation Area Sensitivity – The use and management of the site respected the Matching Green Conservation Area and the setting of surrounding heritage assets, ensuring no adverse impacts on the character and appearance of the locality.

• Flood Risk Compliance – The site is located outside flood zones 2 and 3, confirming that no prior approval was required under Class BC, streamlining the application process.

Outcome

The planning statement comprehensively demonstrated that the use of the land for events (28 days) and a temporary campsite (60 days) is lawful under permitted development rights and fully compliant with Class B and Class BC of the GPDO. By clearly aligning with the NPPF and local policy requirements, the application robustly justified the lawful use, ensuring the continued contribution of The Chequers Public House to community life while maintaining the integrity of its rural, heritage setting.

Why Choose Daniel White Planning Services?
• Expert Planning Statements for Lawful Development Certificates

• In-Depth Understanding of Green Belt and Conservation Area Policy

• Strategic Planning Advice to Maximise Site Potential Under Permitted Development

• Clear, Robust Submissions Aligned with National and Local Policy

Need Support with a Lawful Development Certificate?

If you need expert guidance in preparing a Lawful Development Certificate for your site or project, Daniel White Planning Services can help ensure your proposal is robust, compliant, and positioned for approval.

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your application effectively.