Specific Planning and Building Regulations Considerations for Witterings, Bracklesham Bay and Birdham

Planning and Building Regulations Specific to the Witterings, Bracklesham and Birdham

The Witterings, Bracklesham and Birdham all fall within Chichester District Council so has similar planning requirements as the rest of Chichester. However, being near the coast, and with recent changes to floor risk maps, means there might be more stringent requirements relating to flood risk. Some areas of West Wittering are in a conservation area which brings its own planning considerations too. Many areas of Birdham are also impacted by Chichester Harbour Conservancy, which is also a unique planning consideration. Having lived and worked on the Peninsula for over 30 years, we are well suited to dealing with the unique landscape and the practicalities of working in such a beautiful part of the coast.

Conservation Areas and Chichester Harbour Conservancy

West Wittering is defined by its stunning AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) status and its designated Conservation Area. Planning here is about preservation and high-quality design.

Heritage & Character: Applications in West Wittering often require a Heritage Statement. We design extensions and renovations that respect the traditional coastal vernacular.
Development near to Chichester harbour need to be careful not to detract from the beautiful coastline which ought to be protected. Designs need to meet specific additional criteria set out by the Chichester Harbour Conservancy.

A Development Hotspot

In contrast to West Wittering, where development is more difficult, East Wittering and Bracklesham Bay are seeing a surge in residential development. This area is an ideal location for modern family homes and ambitious extensions.

Whether it’s a loft conversion to catch a sea view or a full-scale remodel of a 1960s bungalow, we have done lots of projects in East Wittering and Bracklesham. In fact, Alan lives on West Bracklesham Drive, so it’s nice and easy to pop in and discuss your project!

Flood Risk

Due to recent changes to the flood risk maps, many properties in East Wittering, Bracklesham and Birdham are now in Flood Risk Zone 2 and 3. This brings with it certain requirments for planning and building regulations. For planning, you will be asked for a flood risk assessment. We can arrange this for you. You may be asked to demonstrate how your proposal adheres to SUDS (Sustainable Drainage). As part of the building regulations, you may be asked to demonstrate mitigation measures against the increased risk of flooding. We can deal with this when we produce building regulations drawings and notes.