Langley Hall Farm

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I have assisted Brett Bros Developments of Langley Moor, Durham on several projects. Mr Brett was awarded the City of Durham Trust Architectural Award of the Year in 2013, along with Garry Hodgson Architectural Services of Shotley Bridge, for his transformation of Esh Winning Memorial Hall into Eshwin Hall, flats for venerable people. A plaque was presented to them on the 9 March 2013.

Mr Brett is a valued client and recently I completed a design and access statement to accompany his planning application for the erection of three dwellinghouses at Langley Hall Farm, Sleetburn Lane, Langley Moor.

An application submitted previously was withdrawn when it was identified that there was significant archeological interest in the site and the Council contested the principle of the development.

A subsequent geophysical survey and archaeological evaluation of the site by Durham University recommended that no further archeological works were required.

Contrary to officer advice, I argued that the principle of the development was acceptable highlighting that the Council’s suite of housing policies were out of kilter with the National Planning Policy Framework. In their consultation response, the Area Planning Policy team agreed with my deductions.

Further advice from officers of the Council provided the opportunity to raise ridge heights allowing the provision of more bedrooms in the roof space.

The scheme was re-designed and the application resubmitted.

The Council granted conditional planning permission for the development on 25 June 2013.