We transformed a previously refused and dismissed scheme into a compelling, deliverable vision — unlocking much‑needed affordable housing where it had once been considered impossible.
Located on the edge of the village, the site had been rejected on multiple occasions, with concerns around landscape impact and the acceptability of development. Rather than seeing these constraints as limits, we approached them as opportunities – reimagining the scheme through a landscape‑led and evidence‑driven strategy that aligned design, policy and need.
Key Details
- Location: Sileby, Charnwood, Leicestershire
- Client: Owl Partnerships, Nottingham Community Housing Association and Inside Land
- Services: Planning, Socio-economics
- Sector: Residential / Strategic Land
- Marrons team: Dan Usher
Reframing the planning context
Planning permission had previously been refused, and a subsequent appeal dismissed, with significant landscape harm cited and the principle of development questioned.
We revisited the site with fresh perspective, reinterpreting its potential within both the local plan framework and its broader village context. Through careful engagement with the local planning authority, we repositioned the site – demonstrating how it could form a sensitive and logical extension to the existing settlement.
A landscape-led vision for change
At the heart of the scheme was a clear commitment to a landscape-led approach. By responding directly to the site’s setting, we reshaped the proposal to reduce visual impact and strengthen its relationship with the surrounding environment.
This shift in strategy fundamentally changed how the site was perceived – moving from an unacceptable intrusion to a carefully integrated addition that could enhance the settlement edge.
Unlocking the case for affordable housing
Central to the success of the scheme was a detailed assessment of affordable housing need and supply, which demonstrated a growing under-provision in the area.
This evidence created a compelling case for delivery, highlighting the urgency of need and shifting the planning balance in favour of development. In doing so, the scheme responded not only to site-specific constraints, but to broader housing priorities.
From rejection to opportunity
Through a combination of strong design, robust evidence and collaborative working, the scheme secured allocation in the emerging local plan, creating a new policy context for delivery.
This shift enabled the local planning authority to grant early permission, recognising both the improved design response and the critical need for affordable homes.
What was once considered an unviable proposal became a clear success — a scheme that not only gained approval but helped meet a pressing community need.
Our role
We led the planning strategy on behalf of Owl Partnerships, Nottingham Community Housing Association and Inside Land, guiding the project from a position of constraint to one of opportunity.
Our role focused on reframing the narrative, aligning design with policy and evidence, and working closely with stakeholders to deliver a solution that was both sensitive and viable.
