Proving where there is a will there’s a way, our planning and architecture team has obtained planning consent for a scheme not usually permitted.

The team successfully argued for the subdivision of a house to make two detached homes near Wadborough, Worcestershire.

Generally, new housing in the open countryside is not permitted due to its isolated location and reliance on cars to access services and facilities. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, including the subdivision of existing properties into multiple units.

In this case the property had a two-bedroom granny annexe attached to it which the client wished to separate into a self-contained home as they no longer needed the space.

By demolishing a single storey link between the main house and the annexe, the team was able to create two detached properties in large plots that could be extended or altered to make two good sized family homes.

Head of planning and architecture, Natasha Blackmore da Silva said: “New dwellings in open countryside locations are much sought-after, but hard to obtain consent for. This exception allows for annexes and outbuildings to be split from their main dwelling and occupied as their own unit.

“The applicant is very happy they have been able to form an additional dwelling from this underused annexe.”

If you have a property you think would be suitable for subdivision and would like advice, please email the team on planning@sheldonbosleyknight.co.uk or call 01789 387880.