Some time ago i asked the question here , 'do allotment need planning permission' , but was not able to go into any detail, as we were at war with the planning gods. Last night common sense prevailed and we were granted permission against the planners refusal. Our story may be of some use to other sites.
in 2006 we had a lottery grant to build some disabled plots , but was unable to get funding or the council to add a toilet to the plan, by 2010 we managed to raise £2000 via members fundraising events, but as this only covered the cost of a main sewer connection ( other systems not possible) we applied to the lottery and were granted the funds to expand the plan, our Green-fingers cabin + disabled toilet project was born , Council said go ahead....a SH portacabin was purchased for £3000 , and we had loads of support from local and national business with donations and special prices. work commenced in June ... until the local planning dept stepped in , 'you need permission'.. we quickly drew up and submitted better plans (£170 fee). they refused permission as did not conform to local temporary building policy and other nonsense. it went to the line, Last night a full planning committee granted permission !, we just have to paint it a different colour !
Today I am reflecting on the cost to the council tax payers and time wasted that could have been spent on more important issues.
Why is there not better guidance for buildings on allotment sites ?
What we learned , always get agreements confirmed and in writing...
