Planning Advice - MDL Marinas

Challenge

Vail Williams was appointed by MDL Marinas to provide planning advice and achieve planning permission to extend their pontoons at Torquay Marina.

The site is in an extremely sensitive location both in terms of natural and historic environments within and adjacent to Lyme Bay Torbay Special Area of Conservation; Torbay Marine Conservation Zone and Torquay Harbour Conservation Area. This presented a complex planning picture to navigate.

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How we helped

• Implemented a non-traditional planning approach, seeking permission through additional planning tools.
• Submitted a Section 77 Application under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2017), with respect to the permitted development (PD) rights.
• Prepared, submitted and managed an application under Section 191 of the Town & Country Planning Act (General Permitted Development) order 2015 (as amended).
• Worked with and guided the Local Authority through the processes.

Result

• Discussed and negotiated with the Council regarding the certificate of lawfulness following procedural stages and milestones under the Conservation of Habitat Regulations, enabling the proposal to benefit from PD rights.
• In-depth planning expertise via a non-traditional route ensured the pontoon extensions could take place, enhancing and increasing the number of mooring spots for vessels.
• The pontoons extend into open areas on the seaward side of the marina, allowing MDL Marinas to develop and grow their business.