- Nation
- England
- National planning policy
- NPPF
- Planning authorities
- 7
- City
- Brighton
How councils in East Sussex look at it
Neighbouring gardens in East Sussex sometimes make a stronger scheme together than apart. One plot may have a drive but little depth; the next may have depth but no way in. A feasibility study can test a combined layout with one shared access, as well as each garden on its own, so the owners can compare the outcomes before anyone agrees anything. Where several owners are involved, a collaboration agreement usually comes next.
Planning authorities covering East Sussex include Brighton and Hove City Council, Eastbourne Borough Council, Hastings Borough Council, Lewes District Council, Rother District Council, Wealden District Council, South Downs National Park Authority.
How it works
Free plot appraisal
A desktop look at your plot, access, title plan and the planning picture, plus a conversation about what you want. If it looks viable we visit. There’s no cost and no obligation at this stage.
Scope and written quote
If you want to go further, we set out which surveys and checks your plot needs and what they will cost, in writing. Nothing is commissioned until you have agreed the scope and the price.
Survey and constraints check
A measured survey of the plot and its surroundings, then a check of the title, services, trees, flood risk and heritage designations, so the design starts from facts rather than guesses.
Access and capacity study
We test each workable route in and the number, size and position of homes the plot could hold, against separation distances, garden space, parking, bins and daylight for neighbours.
Concept designs and pre-application
Sketch layouts and simple elevations for the strongest options. Where it will help, we take one to the council for pre-application advice before anything is submitted.
Feasibility report and options
A clear yes, no or maybe, the reasons behind it, and the routes open to you: apply for planning, build, sell or partner. You decide what happens next, with no obligation to use us for it.
Feasibility and design in towns across East Sussex
Questions about feasibility and design in East Sussex
How long does feasibility take for a plot in East Sussex?
Often a few weeks, sometimes a couple of months. It depends on surveyor availability, whether title documents or specialist surveys are needed, and how long the council takes to respond if you ask for pre-application advice. Some ecology surveys can only be done at certain times of year.
Is pre-application advice available in East Sussex?
Most councils offer it, usually for a fee, and publish their arrangements online. It gives you a planning officer’s written view on the principle and design of a scheme before you apply. It isn’t binding, but on a finely balanced garden plot it often shows what the council will focus on.
What happens after a feasibility study in East Sussex?
You choose. With a clear yes or a promising maybe, you might apply for planning, build a home on the plot, or sell or partner on it. With a no, you have the reasons and the evidence. Whichever way you go, the report, survey and concept designs remain yours to use.
Do you buy garden plots in East Sussex?
Yes. We buy suitable garden plots across East Sussex directly, with or without planning permission, always subject to survey, title and contract. We also offer sales subject to planning, options, planning promotion and joint ventures. Which route fits depends on your plot, so the starting point is a free, no-obligation appraisal.