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KPPC successfully won an appeal for 16 homes in the Dorset green belt to enable restoration of historic mill buildings.

It secured the planning permission on appeal for Morden Mill and Farmhouse, off the A35 road, near Poole.

It acted for applicant Smartin Developments Limited, along with Scott Worsfold Architects and Urban Designers and other project partners.

Background:

There has been a mill and associated buildings on the site since the 11th Century, with the current buildings erected in the 18th Century.

Both Grade II listed, they are considered individually, and as a group, of significant national importance.

The Plans:

The plans included a carefully considered design and layout reflecting the rural character of the area, with some homes designed to appear as converted agricultural buildings.

The site also includes curtilage listed buildings, such as a stable block.

Many of the buildings within the heritage setting retain significant historic fabric, including original machinery, brick detailing, and traditional segmental arch heads.

The original application was refused by Dorset Council.

Challenges

The site lies in the south east Dorset green belt but the Inspector Oliver Marigold BSc DipTP MRTPI said that the proposals would be appropriate.

He stated that the planning application met the ‘very special circumstances’ test required to justify development in the green belt area:

“Therefore, despite the conflict with the Development Plan, the balance of material considerations indicate that planning permission should be granted, and the appeal should be allowed.”

Outcome:

The scheme will breathe new life into the historic mill and farmhouse – securing their  future as heritage assets – while delivering much-needed new homes in a thoughtfully designed and high-quality rural scheme.

Partners:

Project Team:

 

 

 

 

Location:
Morden, near Poole, Dorset

Local Authority:
Dorset Council

Services:

Appeal representation

Planning advice

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