Our planning FAQs are designed to give you some guidance when navigating the planning application process for your project. Got a question we haven’t answered? Give us a call or email and we’d be happy to help.
Do I need planning permission for my modular build?
Planning permission requirements are very site specific. Although our core range is classed as caravans, if there is a change of use of the land planning permission will be required. An example of this is from agricultural to use of land as a caravan site. We recommend speaking to a planning consultant for advice on the specifics for your site.
How does a planning consultation work?
We work with Greenfinch who provide planning advice for a wide range of projects. When you enquire they will conduct a site assessment and give you a free 30 min consultation call to discuss the potential planning requirements for your project.
What are the first steps in gaining planning permission?
After you have spoken with a member of the team at Greenfinch, they will recommend that next steps, this is typically a feasibility study. This document aims to answer all of your questions and understand if developing your site is feasible. This is an unbiased service that gives you all of the answers so you can decide whether to proceed with your site. Questions that are answered includes: Is my site likely to gain planning permission? How long will it take to build my site? What are my biggest challenges likely to be?
What about building warrants?
In the majority of cases a building warrant application is not required for Iron & Pine’s standard units due to compliance with the section 29 of the Caravan Sites and Control Development Act 1960. There are a number of example where building warrant for your units is required. Greenfinch can also provide advice on this during your consultation. In all case you will require a building warranty for any drainage requirements on the unit.
What is the Caravan Act ?
For planning permission purposes, the majority of modular units are classified as caravans.
Under section 29 of the Caravan Sites and Control Development Act 1960, a caravan is any structure built for human habitation that can be moved from one place to another. It must not exceed 20m in length, 6.8m in width, and 3.05m in height (measured internally from floor to ceiling).
How easy is it to get planning permission for an Iron & Pine unit?
We have found that planners look favourably upon our units because they are architecturally designed and have a low profile in the landscape. As part of the planning consultation Greenfinch would look at existing materials in your area to allow the external finish of the unit to be in keeping. The energy efficiency and sustainability of using a container conversion is also a bonus for planning applications.
Who are Greenfinch?
Greenfinch have offices in Edinburgh, Carlisle and Oxford and are a team of planners, architects and project managers who specialise working with manufacturers to deliver the appropriate statutory permission. Their role is to liaise with you and the Iron & Pine team to remove any friction in your planning process and deliver you the permission you require.
Contact Iron & Pine to start discussing your project – https://www.ironandpine.co.uk/contact-us/
Find out more about Greenfinch – https://www.greenfinchuk.com/
