Planning Appeal Success for a New Single-Storey Dwelling
Category
Bell Cornwell News
Practical Planning Advice
Region
South East
Date
22 January 2026
We’re delighted to share another planning appeal success – this time for a new single-storey dwelling on land adjacent to Blackstocks Lane, Nately Scures, Hampshire.
This positive outcome follows Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s refusal of the original planning application. However, the Planning Inspectorate has now allowed the appeal and granted full planning permission, confirming that the proposed development represents an acceptable and sustainable form of development in this semi-rural location.
Following their site visit to understand the proposed development in context, the Inspector reached the decision to allow the appeal.
They concluded that, while the site lies outside the defined settlement boundary, one new dwelling would provide a significant social benefit. The site was found to be reasonably well connected to nearby services and facilities in Hook and Old Basing, and therefore consistent with the spatial strategy for growth.
In assessing the impact on the character and appearance of the surrounding countryside, the Inspector found that the degree of landscape harm would be limited and localised.
The proposed dwelling was considered to sit comfortably within the existing pattern of development along Blackstocks Lane, with appropriate design, scale and landscaping to integrate the scheme into its setting.
The Inspector concluded that any visual impact would not be significant enough to justify refusal, particularly when weighed against the social and economic benefits of new housing.
A key factor in the decision was that Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council cannot currently demonstrate a five-year housing land supply.
This triggered the presumption in favour of sustainable development under paragraph 11(d) of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), meaning permission should be granted unless the adverse impacts significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits.
In this case, the Inspector found the benefits of delivering a new home, including contributing to housing supply and supporting the local economy, clearly outweighed any limited harm identified.
This appeal success highlights how a robust, evidence-based approach can secure positive results even in locations outside settlement boundaries.
By clearly demonstrating sustainability credentials, design quality and local context, we were able to show that the proposal aligned with both national policy objectives and the broader planning balance in favour of growth.
We’re very pleased to have achieved this outcome for our client and to see a well-considered scheme receive the recognition it deserves.
If you’re facing a similar challenge with a refused application or would like to discuss the prospects of success at appeal, the Bell Cornwell team can help.
Get in touch with us for expert planning advice and appeal representation.
The Bell Cornwell team provides tailored advice to help you maximise your chances of success, from site selection and design coordination to planning applications and post-permission requirements. If you want expert planning support, get in touch with our team.
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Stephanie Baker is an Associate Planner specialising in rural and heritage planning, including Class Q barn conversions. With over 12 years’ local government experience, she brings strong leadership, policy insight and a collaborative approach to complex and sensitive planning projects. She joined Bell Cornwell in 2025.
