Sale of Rural Plots in Studley – Buyers Beware

The District Council has become aware of a site to the east of Redditch Road, Studley, which is being subdivided into small plots which are then being advertised for sale on the internet. The land is located within Stratford District and is designated as Green Belt and lies within the Arden Special Landscape Area. Whilst the plots are being advertised as investment opportunities, prospective purchasers should be aware of the planning constraints that apply to the site and that there is no realistic prospect of permission being granted for development of this site in the foreseeable future.  

Before making a decision to invest, prospective purchasers of plots on this site or any similar site in the District should contact the Council's Planning Policy team, who will be able to advise on the planning prospects of the site. The Planning Policy Team can be contacted by phone on 01789 260337 or e-mail planning@stratford-dc.gov.uk The subdivision of agricultural land into small plots for sale, usually on the internet, creates problems for communities and planning control, and has become a matter of widespread public concern which is recognised by the Government.  

There are three main aspects to the problem:

·         The plots may be divided up with pegs, stakes or fences, creating an eyesore which detracts from the open appearance of the countryside.

·         When plots are sold and no longer in agricultural use it is possible for the land to be neglected and that is difficult to put right if plot owners cannot be traced.  

           The subdivision of fields gives rise to concern locally because it can give the impression that development of the land is bound to occur regardless of the planning constraints which apply.   A range of powers are available to the Council to address any problems which may arise and we will be closely monitoring this site to see if any further action should be taken.