Policy information sourced from the Epping Forest District Local Plan 2011-2033

DM12 Subterranean, Basement Development and Lightwells

  • Basements will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the proposal:
    1. will not adversely affect the structural stability of the host building, neighbouring buildings or other infrastructure, including the adjoining highway, having regard to local geological conditions;
    2. does not increase flood risk to the property and adjacent properties from any source;
    3. avoids harm to the appearance or setting of the property or the established character of the surrounding area;
    4. will not adversely impact the amenity of adjoining properties by reason of noise, light pollution or increased levels of internal or external activity; and
    5. will conserve or enhance the local natural and historic environment.
  • The siting, location, scale and design of basements must have minimal impact on, and be subordinate to, the host building and property. Basement development should:
    1. not comprise of more than one storey; and
    2. not exceed 50% of each area of garden within the curtilage of the property.
  • Applications should demonstrate through the submission of a Construction Management Statement that the construction:
    1. will not cause harm to pedestrian, cycle, vehicular and road safety, adversely affect bus or other transport operations, significantly increase traffic congestion, nor place unreasonable inconvenience on the day to day life of those living, working or visiting nearby; and
    2. will minimise construction impacts such as noise, vibration and dust for the duration of the works.
  • The Council will not permit basements which include habitable rooms or other sensitive uses in areas prone to flooding and where there is no satisfactory means of escape from flooding.
  • In determining planning applications for lightwells, the Council will permit development proposals which protect:
    1. the architectural character of the building; and
    2. the character and appearance of the surrounding area. F. In determining proposals for basements the Council will require an assessment of the scheme’s impact on drainage, flooding, groundwater conditions and structural stability in the form of a Basement Impact Assessment and where appropriate a Basement Construction Management Statement in accordance with the Council’s Local List of Validation Requirements.

For more information please see the Epping Forest District Local Plan 2011-2033