- Nation
- England
- National planning policy
- NPPF
- Planning authorities
- 4
- City
- Sheffield
How councils in South Yorkshire look at it
Neighbouring gardens in South Yorkshire 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 South Yorkshire include Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, City of Doncaster Council, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, Sheffield City Council.
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 South Yorkshire
- Sheffield
- Rotherham
- Doncaster
- Barnsley
- Chapeltown
- Darton
- Dinnington
- Adwick le Street
- Rawmarsh
- Maltby
- Thorne
- Wath-upon-Dearne
- Conisbrough
- Hoyland
- Wombwell
- Mexborough
Questions about feasibility and design in South Yorkshire
Is pre-application advice available in South Yorkshire?
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.
Do you carry out plot feasibility studies across South Yorkshire?
Yes. We cover garden plots throughout South Yorkshire, including in and around Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster and Barnsley. Every enquiry starts with a free desktop appraisal and, where the plot looks viable, a site visit. Survey and design work beyond that is quoted in writing before you commit.
How long does feasibility take for a plot in South Yorkshire?
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.
Can you build a new home in my garden in South Yorkshire for me to keep?
Yes. Through our design and build route we survey your plot, design a new home with you, apply for planning and, once permission is granted, build it. You keep the land and the new home, to sell, let or use for family. You get a written quote after design and survey, and any earlier guide price is a guide only.