Planning Knowledge

Hawkes Architecture are the only architectural practice in the UK to almost exclusively specialise in the design of truly outstanding NPPF Paragraph 84 houses of exceptional quality.

Paragraph 80 of the National Planning Policy Framework (The Framework) allows development in the countryside in certain circumstances. It is route for obtaining planning permission in isolated locations and is popular with self-builders. The framework as its name suggests provides a national framework for planning policies. Planning applications should be determined in accordance with the development plan unless material circumstances indicate otherwise.

On 24th July 2018, the Government published its updated National Planning Policy Framework and this was revised again in February 2019. The policy provision for new houses of exceptional quality of design in the countryside was contained within paragraph 79 of the former national planning policy guidance.

On 27th March 2012, the Government issued new national planning guidance entitled the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and this replaced PPS7. Significantly, the provision that allowed for the erection of houses of exceptional quality and innovative nature of design in the countryside was retained in the new national planning policy guidance.

Planning Policy Statement 7 (PPS7) sets out the Government’s planning policies for rural areas, including country towns and villages and the wider, largely undeveloped countryside up to the fringes of larger urban areas.

The policy began in 1997 when the then Environment Secretary, John Gummer, introduced into planning policy – Planning Policy Guidance 7