The Framework Challenge: A Phase 3 SRP redevelopment (working with main contractor Bowmer + Kirkland) set on a site with challenging topography and a highly visible location. Technical bottlenecks included a Public Right of Way (PROW) crossing the site that required temporary diversion, strict sustainability policies from the Local Planning Authority and adjoining nursery which was required to remain open during the construction. While the school building itself does not directly sit on the River Stour, it is situated just a short walk away from Sudbury’s famous scenic water meadows and the historic river route immortalised by John Constable, a consideration for the design team.
The Dobson-Grey Intervention: Our Town Planning team led early and proactive negotiations with the Local Planning Authority and the design team to ensure a sensitive design that effectively addressed the difficult site levels. We managed the PROW by negotiating the removal of a Section 106 requirement and actively coordinating the temporary diversion with the Highway Authority. Furthermore, we prepared an Energy and Sustainability Statement and engaged early with neighbours.
The Outcome: Planning permission was granted by Babergh District Council under Officers’ delegated powers with conditions successfully agreed in advance of the decision. The proactive engagement avoided all neighbour objections. The project delivered a highly efficient, sustainable development aligned with local policies and seamlessly met all regulatory requirements for the PROW.
Work is on going to discharge planning conditions. Where there have been minor changes to elements of the scheme these have been agreed through Section 96A applications as Non -Material Amendments.
Comprehensive condition survey of a two-storey public house A client required a comprehensive condition survey of a two-storey public house as part of their lease agreement finalisation. The property had been unoccupied for approximately two years, making a detailed assessment of its current state critical. Dobson-Grey, conducted a crucial condition survey. Our team carried out…
Defect Report – Window Installation Dobson-Grey Ltd. was instructed to provide an Expert Witness Defect Report. Our lead surveyor, an experienced Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer, led the technical investigation. Their extensive background in RICS HomeBuyer Condition Surveys, valuations, snagging, and project management of window installations in heritage properties provided the foundation for a comprehensive…
Shakespeare Marina, Stratford-upon-Avon Dobson-Grey Ltd were instructed to undertake a retrospective and prospective strategy and planning review of a leisure-based development site with a complex planning history, located in a sensitive riverside location on the edge of Stratford-upon-Avon. It was necessary for the previously approved development to evolve to meet changing economic circumstances and to…