Planning Appeal Secured for Bold New Home in Quarndon’s Green Belt

JSA Architects led the design and technical delivery of the project, working closely with local planning consultants Planning Design Practice, who managed the planning and appeal process. Together, the team navigated a complex planning landscape, ultimately securing consent from the Planning Inspectorate following a refused application by Amber Valley Borough Council.

The site’s Green Belt status meant the proposal was always going to face significant scrutiny. From the outset, our strategy was to build a strong planning foundation through a series of incremental applications under permitted development rights. These prior approvals were not simply procedural—they helped establish a clear fallback position and strengthened the argument for a more comprehensive redevelopment. When the time came to submit a full application, this layered strategy reinforced our design justifications and highlighted the logic and quality behind the final proposal.

The appeal decision acknowledged the design’s architectural merit, the established precedence, and the thoughtful response to its setting. The result is a carefully considered home that respects its neighbours and enhances the surrounding context, without compromising on space, style, or performance.

Following the successful outcome, JSA has completed the full technical drawing package and coordinated the tender process. A principal contractor has now been appointed, and construction is scheduled to begin in June 2025.

This project demonstrates what’s possible when good design and smart strategy go hand in hand. It’s a clear example of how challenging sites—particularly those within the Green Belt—can still unlock ambitious, high-quality outcomes with the right team, the right approach, and a well-structured plan.

You can find the project on our Projects Page. We’ll be sharing updates as the build progresses on site.