Paragraph 79 (formerly Paragraph 55) is part of the National Planning Policy Framework updated in February 2019. This paragraph refers to the circumstances in which planning applications to build new, isolated homes in the countryside can be considered.

Local planning authorities are generally discouraged from granting permission to new isolated homes in the countryside but Paragraph 79 provides a mechanism through which permission can be sought.

The NPPF text reads as follows;

‘Planning policies and decisions should avoid the development of isolated homes in the countryside unless one or more of the following circumstances apply:

e) the design is of exceptional quality, in that it:

• is truly outstanding or innovative, reflecting the highest standards in architecture, and would help to raise standards of design more generally in rural areas; and

• would significantly enhance its immediate setting, and be sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area.

— NPPF, paragraph 79 (criterion e) (2019)’

What is the role of an ecologist on a Paragraph 79 project?

The design of buildings that are outstanding or innovative is primarily a challenge for architects however ecological consultants can form an invaluable part of the wider project design team. Potential Paragraph 79 sites are often located in green belt or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. They may contain valuable habitats or protected species and the usual ecology surveys and mitigation for planning applications will be required. Note that the Paragraph 79 developments need to ‘significantly enhance’ their immediate setting and also need to ‘be sensitive to the defining characteristics’ of the local area. The defining characteristics of the local area may include certain wildlife and habitats!

Beyond the routine surveys required for planning the right ecologist can bring ecologically sensitive but also exciting and innovative ideas for the development to the table. The inclusion of an experienced ecologist with some imaginative flair on the team can complement and enhance the design.

Our experience

Ecology by Design have experience of working on multiple Paragraph 79 projects, four of which are currently in the early planning stages.

We work with various highly regarded architects, all national experts recognised for their expertise and success in gaining planning permission for Paragraph 79 developments.

Our current Paragraph 79 projects incorporate sites across three counties including a former chalk quarry, a secluded woodland & wet meadow, a former fishery and a hillside location within an AONB. Our aim is not only to help you retain the local ecological character of your Paragraph 79 site but also to restore and enhance it with features that complement your new home and contribute to its outstanding and innovative design.