This act relates to fire engine access for developments. The problem is that you will not find out for sure whether the act bites until you start to implement a planning consent. So, in theory, it would be quite possible to buy at a premium a dwelling which had the “benefit” of planning permission, only to find that that permission could not be implemented. This could cause you very serious inconvenience and financial loss, and before considering the purchase of a potentially affected property you might consider arranging suitable insurance.

The criteria is the width and turning ability of a fire engine, and common sense compare and contrast excercise with similar or larger vehicles do not seem to apply.

It is triggered when there is an increase in “fire load”. As I understand it, if a room is enlarged it should not trigger the act, but in one instance it did, and the stipendary magistrate said Wealden’s case was “untenable”. Discovering that fact cost the appellant £11,000.

The geographical coverage of the act has embraced properties in Hailsham, Cross in Hand, Old Heathfield, Hartfield, Nutley, Mayfield and Crowborough ( *2 ).

A number of people have put in for extensions / rebuilds/ new builds, have been given consent, and then been advised of the act’s ramifications by Wealden’s building inspector once they were about to start building. In one case the plans had been revised, and a S.106 paid for, before the consent was given. In another 15 tons of beach had been delivered. Unfortunately, hard evidence of exactly what has gone on is hard to uncover, because certainly in the case of Fern Hollow, Clockhouse Lane, Nutley, Wealden insisted on a gagging clause.

If you have had any experience with this act, or wish to know the circumstances of some of those who have been affected, please ring Chester Hudson on 07836 210363 who will put you in touch with others similarly affected.

Diversification.

Diversification of farms and farm buildings seems to be the buzz word. Unfortunately a number of individuals have found unforeseen difficulties when attempting to consolidate or diversify. Many were either extending an existing enterprise or attempting to repeat a previous success, so naivety and lack of former business experience can be discounted. Amongst the enterprises frustrated have been :-

Boar farming
Carp farming
Charcoal
Container grown trees
Hard landscaping specialist
Horse rescue sanctuary
Incidental farmhouse bed and breakfast
Kindergarten
Machinery spares
Organic wine
Pet crematorium
Pig farming
Put and take fishery
Rodeo rider
Spring water
Venison
Woodworking workshop

If you have had any adverse experiences when attempting to diversify, or wish to know more about the circumstances of those who have been frustrated, please ring Chester Hudson on 07836 210363