Water neutrality evidence helps revive heritage asset
A dilapidated Grade II listed country house in the South Downs National Park will soon be sensitively restored to its former glory. Full consent has been granted for proposals to convert the late 19th-century manor and outbuildings known as Wispers into 21 luxury homes with woodland and kitchen gardens, tennis courts and club house, swimming pool and co-working spaces. Demonstrating water neutrality was key to the successful planning outcome.
The estate was most recently used as an independent residential school but had been empty for several years. It is located in the Sussex North Water Resource Zone, where water neutrality statements need to accompany planning applications. Baseline calculations of previous water usage were needed for forecasting additional demand after occupation.
Collaboration and evidence
Peter Cleveland, Head of Planning at Henry Adams LLP, outlines the challenge. “Motion’s evidence enabled us to question the basis of a three-year limit beyond which higher water consumption cannot be taken into consideration. We asserted that, in this case, it would be unreasonable to apply the condition and Natural England eventually accepted our position.”
Motion Director, Neil Jaques, explains, “The estate could have been brought back into use as a school relatively easily. On this basis, historic data for previous water consumption could be applied for the baseline calculations. This establishes an interesting precedent for future schemes.”
Water-efficient measures for new development
It was concluded that the proposed development would not result in an increase in water demand and no offsite offsetting was required. New and restored buildings will have water-efficient fixtures and fittings and a mitigation strategy for the swimming pool and club house will further restrict water demand.
Sustainability impact:
- Asset of national historical importance brought back into use
- Farmstead and woodland landscapes sensitively restored
- Sustainable construction, water-efficient fixtures and fittings, and energy-efficient appliances
Image credit: © Re-Format LLP
