St Modwen Developments obtained planning permission for the expansion of the existing business park to the south west of Junction 10 of the M42, while also promoting land to the south east of the junction. This 25-hectare site presented significant planning challenges, being greenfield, located outside the urban area, and identified by the local planning authority as forming part of a protected “Meaningful Gap”.

Planning Prospects was appointed to lead on planning strategy for the south east site, including its promotion through the Development Plan process and the preparation and submission of a planning application (supported by Environmental Impact Assessment) for up to 80,000 sq m of employment floorspace. Planning permission was initially refused following officer-level opposition.

Planning Prospects subsequently worked closely with Counsel to challenge the Council’s interpretation of its “Meaningful Gap” policy and prepared and managed a successful planning appeal. The appeal was allowed following a public inquiry, with Planning Prospects providing planning evidence and leading the process throughout.

Following this, Planning Prospects secured Reserved Matters approvals for all phases of the scheme, which has now been fully developed and occupied. The team continues to advise on amendments and the ongoing expansion of development on both sides of the motorway junction.

Key information

• 25-hectare site
• 80,000 sq m of employment use
• Fully developed and occupied