We are pleased to see the National Planning Policy Framework is updated with both the National Design Guide, and the National Model Design Code adopted alongside. We truly appreciate a shift in focus on design quality and climate change, in particular the paragraph 131 which requires new streets to be tree-lined in recognition that trees… Read more

We are delighted to announce that we have partnered with Hartpury Equine. The new sponsorship deal includes class sponsorship at the NAF Five Star Hartpury Festival of Dressage (7-11 July) and NAF Five Star Hartpury Showjumping Spectacular (22-25 July), and cross country fence sponsorship at the NAF Five Star International Hartpury Horse Trials (11-15 August)…. Read more

The background documents to the Queen’s Speech 2021 clearly acknowledges that the current planning system does not lead to enough homes being built, and that the increasingly expensive housing is a result of a long-term and persistent undersupply. And so, within the next parliamentary session, the Government promises us to bring some radical changes to… Read more

When considering a planning application, the countryside varies from that in urban areas. Farms Farms are usually controlled by the same planning rules as buildings in towns and cities, but the rules on permitted development mean that some changes to farm buildings do not require planning permission. Farming operations – growing crops or raising livestock… Read more

If you are using your agricultural land for equestrian purposes, your Local Authority could take enforcement action against you. Therefore it is important you know the difference and the limitations of use on your land. If you rent land you can become liable for the breach depending on the agreement in place. Therefore, to keep… Read more

5 reasons why you should go for a walk today 1. Improve your fitness  If you are trying to get fit, start by walking. Walking is one of the easiest (and free!) ways to get active and improve fitness. Not only can it help you lose some weight, regular walking at a brisk pace will… Read more

If you are heading out for an Easter walk this weekend, make sure you do your bit to protect the countryside. ? Respect everyone – Be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside – Leave gates and property as you find them – Do not block access to gateways or driveways… Read more

We were super excited to see one of our projects on the new BBC1 programme – This Is My House. Did you guess who the owner is? The first episode introduced us to four people all claiming to be called Fern. Of course, only one of the Ferns was the real owner. Fern, a former… Read more

Following on from the public consultation and subsequent three-month postponement in September 2016, Cotswold District Council have made the momentous decision to approve outline planning permission for Bathurst Development Limited’s (BDL) 2,350 new homes in Chesterton, Cirencester. After over 600 objections to the application and 13 hours of debate, 17 councillors voted to recommend the… Read more

Recently Cotswold District Council (CDC) held a public meeting to determine the application by Bathurst Development Ltd. (BDL) proposing 2350 new homes in Chesterton, to the South of Cirencester. The development proposes up to 2,350 new homes, with a percentage being affordable housing as well as student accommodation and homes for the elderly. BDL promise… Read more

The Rural Planning Practice is delighted to have a new resident in situ at The Coach House in Dyer Street in Cirencester. ‘Rory’ is a beautiful five-foot tall hare sculpture, decorated by Cotswold artist Trudi Hayden for the Cotswold Hare Trail. He is on display outside The Rural Planning Practice’s offices so that people can… Read more