Shortage of land: 1. What do you need from a self-build plot?

In the current economic climate, there is a much publicised and widely acknowledged shortage of housing stock in the UK. But equally, there is also a chronic shortfall in the amount of acreage available to developers on which to build new homes too. Part of the reason for this is that much open land in the UK is protected or has certain restrictions on it, when it comes to its development. But it also comes down to the fact that there’s less of it available for sale on the open market currently too.

Locally sourced

When you are looking for a plot of land, there are a few basics you’ll have at the top of your list. These include things like sufficient land area. The plot needs to be large enough to comfortably accommodate your self-build project. You should also make a provisional checklist of what you’d like from your ideal home and look at plots with these preliminary thoughts (and your budget) in mind.  

You’ll have to decide on where you’d like to live, but your choices will also be defined by what is actually available, particularly with the current shortage of land. You will need to think about geographic location and its proximity to amenities, but also about the quality of life you’d like to lead. Do you want to live in an urban or suburban location, with all the conveniences in services and amenities that offers, or would you prefer a quieter, more low-key location in the countryside?

There are pros and cons to both options, and it is very much a matter of taste as to which you opt for. The convenience of public transport, or access to highly-rated schools is deemed imperative to some people, but not to others, who may have easy access to their own transport, or not have children. There may also be the option of developing a site that already has a building on it. All this is very much dependent on budget and availability however, and it’s worth looking at a variety of factors that will influence your decision.   

Building a picture of your new home

As soon as you begin looking, either online or actually out in the ‘field’ of the local district you’d like to live in, you’ll start to build a picture of land availability and options. A factor such as good access to the site should also be in your thoughts as you search. Your new-build shouldn’t impact highway safety, for example, and there should be adequate visibility from the entrance/exit. If you have to apply to create an access to the plot, ensure it’s not going to affect other residents or put a burden on the infrastructure and parking.

You also need to be well aware of the different types of ground conditions you can encounter when you are looking to construct a new-build. Even with the current shortage of land, there may be a good reason why no one has tried to develop that prime piece of real estate you have your eye on! Does the site have access to services such as electricity and gas? Some remote or rural areas still rely on their own supply of gas, for example, or have an oil tank for heating. And telecommunications and internet access these days are very important for many people, between working from home and streaming entertainment.

Finding the X-factor despite shortage of land

A factor that may not be readily apparent without looking at documentation or a survey is if the site is prone to flooding. You also need to look at the available sewer connections and if they are going to impact the local area too. An option might be an on-site treatment system of your own, such as a septic tank. If you are hampering drainage, by putting hard-standing over the site, will there be adequate surface water drainage in place to accommodate the run-off in the event of heavy rainfall? You may be able to use surface water collection in your development to provide a recycled water source that can be put to use too. One person’s pro is another’s con, however, and it’s all about finding the right combination of positive elements that will give your plot and project the x-factor. And then finding all these in one place!

There’s a lot to think about when first finding a potential development plot and you may have to make some big decisions quickly. A clear approach is needed and if you tick off most – if not all – of your checklist, then you’ll be doing well. It’s a good starting block for your vision, as it begins to take shape and don’t let the shortage of land put you off realising your dream.

If you have always dreamed of building your own home, talk to us to find out how we can help with our complete turnkey self-build package.