We have a problem with our local Planning Dept. on some new private allotments we're trying to set up near Basingstoke on a farmers field. The planners have agreed we don't need planning for the allotments per se, but we will need it to put down the plastic grid mesh we want to use for an area to park cars.
We need your help in putting a case to put to the planners to show that others have put down this plastic mesh without needing persmission. Does you allotment use it? If yes, can you find out if they needed planning permission to put it down?
Our planners are arguing it is a permanent structure which seems ridiculous as the mats can be picked up and moved around and also they let the grass grow through so they don't stop drainage.
To make sure you know what type of mat I mean, we are talking about ones like:
(http://www.grasscrete.com/images/GALLERY/grasscrete/images/Genera%20Parking2.jpg)
(http://gridforce.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/parking1.jpg)
Anyone's help or experience with this issue much appreciated.
Kind regards,
Pete Comley
Chairman
Hook Allotments Association
That stuff looks pretty permanent to me!! why not use the temporary stuff they use at festivals / events?? ;)
Sorry, I have used this, and I would say it was permanent.
Is there a problem with getting permission? or as tonybloke says, there are other products that are classed as temporary, and so could be used.
Hi
I would also ask the planners which bit of the regulations they were relying on to classify it as permanent - often these things are down to interpretation, and so it might be worth reading up on the specific regs/guidance/legislation
The Planning portal uk is a great site for checking out planning applications and approvals but I think you can only search on addresses and not type of application. As well as allotment sites I'd also try and find other non allotment sites where it's been used (farm shops, sports grounds, etc ) as examples always help
I would also look into the manufacturer description of the product to try and back your claim up
Other than that good luck!
1066