Planning Appeal Success for Two Dwellings in Rural Canterbury

In 2019, I secured planning permission on appeal for the redevelopment of a rural brownfield site in the rural area of Canterbury, Kent, delivering two high-quality dwellings.

The scheme involved replacing previously developed structures with a well-considered residential proposal that enhanced the overall appearance and functionality of the site.

The objective was clear: to make effective use of previously developed land in a countryside location, while ensuring the design responded positively to its rural context.

National and local policy generally supports the reuse of brownfield land, provided proposals achieve high-quality design and respect their surroundings.

The Planning Issue

The key challenge was the site’s location within the countryside.

Canterburt City Council’s refusal focused on concerns around sustainability, character, and whether the redevelopment would result in an urbanising impact on the rural landscape.

Through the planning appeal process, I demonstrated that the site’s brownfield status carried significant weight, particularly where redevelopment could deliver environmental improvements.

I also addressed design concerns, showing that the proposed dwellings would sit comfortably within their setting and avoid harm to rural character.

Importantly, appeal decisions consistently show that well-designed schemes can be acceptable on rural brownfield sites where they respect their context and improve the site’s condition.

Appeal Outcome

The Planning Inspector agreed with my case, concluding that the proposal represented an appropriate and sustainable form of development. The appeal was allowed, unlocking a challenging site for residential use.

Planning Appeal Advice

If you have a development project and you have received a planning refusal, contact me for practical advice on whether an appeal is the right option and how to proceed.

Andrew Ransome MRTPI Email: andrew@adpltd.co.uk | Tel: 01206 242070

About me

Andrew Ransome is the planning director at ADP and is a chartered member of the RTPI, with over 22 years of town planning experience.

Andrew has extensive experience offering strategic planning solutions to challenging projects in both rural and urban settings. Follow him on Linkedin.