Self-build project still not approved (From Gazette Series)

Self-build project still not approved

A SELF-BUILD housing scheme continues to fight for planning permission - more than four years after the original application.

Frustrated with the lack of affordable housing around Hawkesbury Upton, a group of people got together to investigate the possibility of forming a self-build project.

The group employed consultant and experienced self-builder Colin Wadsworth to further its aims.

The original application to South Gloucestershire Council was refused, with demands for modifications to be made to the plans.

House designs and the site layout have now been altered and landscaping - originally demanded by a conservation officer - has been reduced.

There have been four different conservation officers in post during the project's history, as well as four town planners and many housing officers, all of whom have been involved.

Mr Wadsworth said: "The current, and past, situation is that this group is suffering from the severe procrastination of planning and housing officers at the district council.

"It is so bad that I feel the officers have an ulterior motive and are keen just to talk this enterprise right out of court.

"For example the present application has been with them since February, and if I complain I am told to appeal on the grounds of non-determination!"

He added: "We will not give up, however, because as bad as the housing situation was five years ago, it is immeasurably worse now."

According to South Gloucestershire Council, there are two remaining problems to be solved.

The first is the acceptability of the membership.

Colin Wadsworth said: "All members have been previously accepted by the housing department - apparently the planners have been waiting for confirmation of this for six weeks."

The second perceived problem area is a legal agreement.

Mr Wadsworth reports that the communications he sent to the legal department had been received months ago.

The original group of self-builders has changed, with about six members falling by the wayside, disappointed by the lack of progress and forced to find alternative solutions.

The planning department has asked for a list of reserve members, so if anyone is interested they should contact Colin Wadsworth on 01666 829131. The group is supported by Hawkesbury Parish Council.