Laying the groundwork for success at appeal for Hargreaves Land
Investing in land promotion demands a careful balance of risk and reward. Getting the planning strategy right from day one is critical, as is continually assessing and adapting that strategy as the project evolves. When our longstanding client, Hargreaves Land, sought to promote an unallocated parcel of safeguarded greenfield land in South Yorkshire, a planning appeal and public inquiry were a real prospect. But this case began much earlier – at pre-application stage – when our long-term strategy for success was put in place.
With a focus on the future
The potential of the site was huge, but so too were the risks. Promotion companies often invest for years before the value in land is realised. We anticipated possible resistance from the local planning authority – and so began to shape our strategy well before the planning application was submitted.
Given the greenfield status of the site, we were also mindful of the potential need to go to appeal. This involved taking a long-term view, analysing upcoming hurdles and advising on the pitfalls well in advance. Becoming embedded in the project was key, enabling us to predict and minimise risks, and to put our client on the pathway to success.
Reviewing technical evidence
From pre-application to the public inquiry, we worked closely with our client at every stage. Rob Moore (Director) in our Planning team led the project. A highly focused approach to the planning application was needed, ensuring the overall case and detailed documents were robust – and would stand up to possible intense scrutiny. As well as shaping the approach to policy, we stress tested all of the key technical areas of work, which were to be submitted as part of the planning application.
Our detailed review of technical evidence was undertaken at the appeal stage, ingraining ourselves in technical reports – from highways to flooding – and collaborating with our expert witness team to test assumptions and prepare for the inquiry. This resulted in submissions being more robust and placing each of our experts in a strong position to give evidence if required. We also represented Hargreaves Land at the public inquiry, with highly-rated Richard Sagar as solicitor advocate. This ensured a seamless process throughout and the case being positively and robustly presented at all stages of the process.
According to plan
Following the public inquiry, the appeal was successful. Hargreaves Land promptly openly marketed the site to all national and regional housebuilders. The market’s reaction has been very positive, and it’s hoped that development of the much needed 180 homes will start soon.
Grounded in advice from even before project inception, and built on a client relationship that spans many years, this is a success story long in the making – and an investment that delivered lasting value for all involved.
Running a successful planning appeal
