Plot size: how much land do you need for your project?
Planning consultant Julia Riddle gives the inside track on what will help you determine the size of plot to go for and how big your dwelling can be based on the site itself and the location
Above: Pauline and Frank Mace built their 388m
2 Frame Technologies (www.frame technologies.
co.uk) home on a 1.5-acre site.
The couple bought two plots of land, one with existing planning consent, and the adjoining field, therefore ensuring no development could take place on the site and interrupt the beautiful views from their home When looking for a plot to self build, it can be challenging to identify what size home you can build on a site and therefore how big the plot should be. Location and context will determine what’s possible, adding to the variables at play. In some places, you may be able to build a larger house on a smaller plot, but in different locations you might need to leave more space around the house between neighbours or retain the context and density of development.
Think about how much space you need in your home and any other requirements for your plot, such as car parking and access, outbuildings etc. This will help you to identify the size of the plot you need. The desired scale and layout for your design will not work on every plot and, to be successful in planning, your development has to work with the particular site and its surroundings.