New Designs – Timber Frame Buildings and Mobile Home Kits – Kimmeridge Lodge

The Kimmeridge Collection: Affordable, Stylish, and Sustainable Mobile Homes by Habitat Mobile Homes

Discover the Perfect Blend of Rural Modern Style and Unmatched Value with the UK's Leading Prefabricated Housing Manufacturer

When it comes to affordable and stylish living solutions in the UK, Habitat Mobile Homes is at the forefront of innovation. Their latest offering, the Kimmeridge Collection, is a testament to their commitment to providing UK homeowners with high-quality, environmentally-friendly, and visually stunning mobile homes and prefabricated houses.

Inspired by the picturesque landscapes and architectural heritage of the English countryside, the Kimmeridge Collection combines slate and natural stone tiles for both wall and roof claddings, creating a rural modern aesthetic that is both timeless and contemporary. This innovative design approach sets the Kimmeridge Collection apart from other prefabricated housing options, offering homeowners the opportunity to enjoy a truly unique living space that is in harmony with its surroundings.

One of the most significant advantages of the Kimmeridge Collection is its ability to be installed in gardens without the need for planning permission. Due to the nature of these mobile homes and prefabricated houses, they are considered temporary structures and are not subject to the same planning restrictions as traditional homes. This means that UK homeowners can benefit from a stylish and functional living solution without the red tape and bureaucracy often associated with new construction projects.

The Kimmeridge Collection by Habitat Mobile Homes is not only visually appealing but also offers a range of practical benefits for homeowners. These include:

Affordability: The Kimmeridge Collection is competitively priced, providing homeowners with an attractive and cost-effective alternative to traditional housing options.

Flexibility: The mobile homes and prefabricated houses in the Kimmeridge Collection can be easily relocated, allowing homeowners to adapt to changing circumstances or pursue new opportunities.

Sustainability: By using eco-friendly materials and construction methods, the Kimmeridge Collection minimises its environmental impact and promotes sustainable living.

Customisation: Homeowners can choose from a variety of layouts, finishes, and features to create a personalised living space that meets their specific needs and preferences.

As a leading British manufacturer of mobile homes and prefabricated houses, Habitat Mobile Homes is dedicated to providing UK homeowners with exceptional quality, value, and style. The Kimmeridge Collection is a testament to their commitment to innovation and excellence, offering a truly unique and affordable living solution that is perfect for those looking to embrace a rural modern lifestyle. If you're considering a mobile home or prefabricated house for your property, look no further than the Kimmeridge Collection by Habitat Mobile Homes. With its unrivalled blend of style, affordability, and sustainability, this exceptional range is the perfect choice for discerning UK homeowners seeking a contemporary and functional living solution. Experience the Kimmeridge Collection for yourself and discover the many benefits of this innovative and sustainable housing option.

Navigating the Legal Labyrinth: Obtaining a Certificate of Lawfulness for Mobile Homes in UK Gardens

A Comprehensive Guide to CLOPUD Applications for Family-Friendly Mobile Home Caravans

In today's increasingly crowded and expensive housing market, many UK families are seeking alternative living arrangements to accommodate their loved ones. One popular solution is the installation of a mobile home caravan in the garden of a property, providing a comfortable and affordable space for family members. However, understanding the legal requirements and obtaining a Certificate of Lawfulness of Proposed Use or Development (CLOPUD) can be a complex and daunting process. In this Sunday Times-style article, we'll explore the criteria for a successful CLOPUD application and discuss the key considerations for homeowners looking to site a mobile home caravan on their property.

Definition of a Mobile Home Caravan
The first step in securing a CLOPUD is understanding the legal definition of a mobile home caravan. According to the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960, a mobile home caravan is defined as a structure designed or adapted for human habitation that is capable of being moved from one place to another, whether by being towed or transported on a motor vehicle or trailer. It must also meet specific size requirements, not exceeding 20 metres in length, 6.8 metres in width, and 3.05 metres in height.

Criteria for a CLOPUD Application
To obtain a CLOPUD, homeowners must demonstrate that their proposed mobile home caravan meets specific criteria. These include:

The mobile home caravan must be sited within the garden or curtilage of an existing dwelling and not on agricultural land or a designated green belt.

The mobile home caravan must be used by a family member and not for commercial purposes, such as renting or subletting.

The proposed use of the mobile home caravan must not constitute a material change of use of the land, meaning that it should not significantly alter the character or appearance of the property or its surroundings.

The mobile home caravan must not result in the creation of a separate dwelling, and its use should remain ancillary to the main property. This includes sharing facilities and utilities, such as water and electricity, with the main dwelling.

Preparing a CLOPUD Application

When preparing a CLOPUD application, homeowners should gather the following supporting documents:

A site plan, showing the location of the proposed mobile home caravan within the garden or curtilage of the existing dwelling.

A detailed description of the proposed use of the mobile home caravan, including information about the family member who will be living in it and the relationship to the homeowner.

Evidence that the mobile home caravan meets the legal definition, such as manufacturer specifications or photographs.
Any other documentation that supports the application, such as letters from neighbours or local authorities attesting to the non-material change of use.

The Decision-Making Process
Once submitted, the local planning authority will assess the CLOPUD application, considering factors such as the impact on the surrounding area, the precedent set by similar cases, and the compatibility with local planning policies. If the application is successful, the homeowner will be granted a Certificate of Lawfulness, confirming that the proposed use of the mobile home caravan is lawful and exempt from planning permission.

In conclusion, obtaining a CLOPUD for a mobile home caravan in the garden of a UK property can be a complex process, but by understanding the criteria and preparing a thorough application, homeowners can successfully navigate the legal labyrinth and provide a comfortable and affordable living solution for their loved ones.

Example Supporting Statement for an LDC Application to cite a mobile home in the garden for use by family member.

1. Introduction and Background
   • Property details and ownership
   • Purpose of the application and intended use of the mobile home caravan
2. Legal Definition of Mobile Home Caravan
   • Description of the mobile home caravan, including dimensions
   • Confirmation that the mobile home caravan meets the legal definition set forth in the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960
3. Site Location and Plan
   • Detailed site plan showing the proposed location of the mobile home caravan within the property boundaries
   • Description of the surrounding area and its compatibility with the proposed development
4. Relationship to the Main Dwelling
   • Explanation of how the mobile home caravan use will remain ancillary to the main dwelling
   • Details on shared facilities and utilities
5. Occupancy and Family Relationship
   • Information about the family member who will be living in the mobile home caravan
   • Explanation of the family relationship to the property owner
6. Compliance with Planning Policy and Local Authority Guidelines
   • Analysis of relevant planning policies and guidelines at the local and national levels
   • Demonstration of compliance with these policies and guidelines
7. Impact on Surrounding Area
   • Assessment of the potential impact of the mobile home caravan on the character and appearance of the property and surrounding area
   • Consideration of any potential issues related to privacy, noise, or traffic
8. Precedent and Supporting Cases
   • Reference to any relevant precedent or similar cases in the area or within the jurisdiction of the local planning authority
   • Explanation of how these cases support the current application
9. Supporting Documents and Evidence
   • List and description of all supporting documents and evidence included with the application, such as manufacturer specifications, photographs, site plans, and neighbour testimonies
10. Conclusion and Summary
    • Recap of the key points and arguments made in the application
    • Final statement emphasizing the legality and appropriateness of the proposed development

Introduction and Background

This application for a Certificate of Lawfulness of Proposed Use or Development (CLOPUD) pertains to the siting of a 'Mobile Home Caravan' in the garden of a residential property located at [Property Address], registered under title number [Title Number]. The property is owned by [Owner's Name] and encompasses a total area of [Area in Square Metres or Acres], including the main dwelling and the surrounding garden.

The purpose of this application is to seek a lawful confirmation for the proposed siting of a mobile home caravan within the garden of the property. The intention is for the mobile home caravan to be used as a temporary residence by a family member of the property owner. This family member, [Family Member's Name], requires a separate living space due to [Reason for the Need for Separate Living Space, e.g., health issues, age, or a temporary living arrangement while working in the area]. The mobile home caravan will provide a comfortable and suitable living environment for [Family Member's Name] while maintaining close proximity to their family.

The mobile home caravan, which is proposed to be sited in the garden of the property, is a high-quality, self-contained unit, designed to provide comfortable and modern living spaces. The unit comprises a living area, kitchen, bedroom(s), and bathroom facilities, offering a convenient and secure living solution for [Family Member's Name]. The mobile home caravan will be positioned in such a way as to minimize any impact on the surrounding area and will be placed in compliance with all relevant planning policies and guidelines.

This application seeks to establish the lawfulness of the proposed development and demonstrate that it meets all necessary criteria for obtaining a CLOPUD. The following sections of this application will outline the relevant legal definitions, site details, compliance with planning policies, and the potential impact on the surrounding area to support the proposal for siting a mobile home caravan in the garden of [Property Address] for use by a family member.

Legal Definition of Mobile Home Caravan

The proposed mobile home caravan for siting in the garden of the property at [Property Address] is designed to provide comfortable and modern living accommodations, featuring a well-planned layout that includes a living area, kitchen, bedroom(s), and bathroom facilities. The mobile home caravan has dimensions of [Length] x [Width] x [Height], ensuring it adheres to the maximum allowable size under the relevant legislation.

The Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960, along with the Caravan Sites Act 1968, provide the legal framework for defining and regulating mobile homes and caravans in the United Kingdom. According to the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960, a mobile home is defined as "any structure designed or adapted for human habitation which is capable of being moved from one place to another (whether by being towed or by being transported on a motor vehicle or trailer) and any motor vehicle so designed or adapted."

Additionally, the Caravan Sites Act 1968 specifies that a twin-unit caravan, which is composed of two sections designed to be assembled on site, must not exceed 20 meters in length, 6.8 meters in width, and have an internal height of no more than 3.05 meters. The proposed mobile home caravan falls within these dimensional restrictions, ensuring its compliance with the legal definition of a mobile home caravan as set forth in the aforementioned Acts.

Furthermore, the mobile home caravan is designed and constructed to meet the British Standard 3632:2015 for residential park homes, ensuring that it offers a high level of quality, safety, and energy efficiency. By adhering to these standards and complying with the legal definition of a mobile home caravan, the proposed unit is suitable for use as a temporary residence for a family member in the garden of the property at [Property Address].

Site Location and Plan

The property at [Property Address] is situated within a [Description of the Area, e.g., residential, semi-rural, or rural] area, surrounded by [Description of Surrounding Properties, e.g., detached homes, semi-detached homes, or countryside]. The property comprises a main dwelling and an ample garden area, which offers a suitable location for the proposed mobile home caravan.

A detailed site plan has been prepared to show the proposed location of the mobile home caravan within the property boundaries. The site plan, attached as Appendix A, indicates the position of the mobile home caravan in relation to the main dwelling, the garden, and the property boundaries. The mobile home caravan is proposed to be sited at a distance of [Distance in Metres] from the main dwelling, ensuring it maintains sufficient separation for privacy and does not obstruct access to the garden or other areas of the property. Furthermore, the proposed location is in compliance with the minimum distance requirements from the property boundaries, as stipulated by the relevant planning guidelines.

Description of the Surrounding Area and Compatibility with the Proposed Development

The surrounding area of the property at [Property Address] is characterised by [Description of Surrounding Area, e.g., a mix of residential properties with well-maintained gardens, open countryside, or a combination of both]. The presence of [Specific Features, e.g., mature trees, hedges, or fencing] around the property boundaries provides a natural screening, which ensures the proposed mobile home caravan will be largely concealed from the view of neighbouring properties and passersby.

The siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property is compatible with the character of the surrounding area. The proposed development will not cause any significant harm to the visual amenity, nor will it negatively impact the privacy or residential amenity of the neighbouring properties. The mobile home caravan will be positioned in such a way as to minimise any potential impact on the surrounding area, ensuring that it remains in harmony with the existing character of the neighbourhood.

By carefully considering the site location and the surrounding area, this proposal demonstrates that the siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property at [Property Address] is compatible with the local environment and is in accordance with the relevant planning policies and guidelines.

Relationship to the Main Dwelling and Impact on Amenity

The proposed mobile home caravan is intended to provide comfortable and independent living space for a family member, while maintaining a close connection to the main dwelling at [Property Address]. The siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden ensures that the family member will benefit from easy access to the main dwelling and its facilities, while still enjoying a sense of privacy and autonomy.

The positioning of the mobile home caravan has been carefully considered to minimise any potential impact on the amenity of the main dwelling, as well as on the neighbouring properties. As mentioned previously, the mobile home caravan will be sited at a distance of [Distance in Metres] from the main dwelling, which is sufficient to prevent any issues related to overshadowing, overlooking, or loss of privacy.

Moreover, the design and appearance of the mobile home caravan have been chosen to complement the architectural style and character of the main dwelling. The use of high-quality materials and finishes ensures that the mobile home caravan will not detract from the visual appeal of the property or the surrounding area.

With regard to the impact on the garden, the proposed siting of the mobile home caravan has been planned to minimise any loss of open space or greenery. The mobile home caravan will occupy a relatively small footprint within the garden, leaving ample space for recreational activities and landscaping. Additionally, the temporary nature of the mobile home caravan ensures that it can be easily removed in the future, should the need arise, allowing for the full restoration of the garden area.

In conclusion, the proposed siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property at [Property Address] has been carefully planned to maintain a harmonious relationship with the main dwelling and the surrounding area, while ensuring minimal impact on the residential amenity and the garden space.

Occupancy and Family Relationship

The following section provides detailed information about the family member who will be residing in the mobile home caravan, as well as an explanation of their relationship to the property owner. This information is essential for establishing the purpose and justification for siting the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property at [Property Address] and demonstrating that the proposed development is in accordance with planning policies and guidance related to ancillary residential uses.

Information about the Family Member

The family member who will be living in the mobile home caravan is [Full Name], who is currently [Age] years old. [Full Name] is a [Occupation or Personal Circumstances, e.g., retired teacher, university student, or person with specific care needs]. They have been living in the local area for [Number of Years] years and have strong connections with the community, including friends, family, and social networks.

[Full Name] has a genuine need for additional living space, which is not adequately provided within the main dwelling at [Property Address]. This need may arise from a variety of factors, such as the desire for greater independence, the necessity for specialised care or support, or the changing dynamics of the household. The mobile home caravan offers a practical and cost-effective solution to accommodate [Full Name]'s needs while maintaining close proximity to their support network and the main dwelling.

Explanation of the Family Relationship to the Property Owner

The property owner at [Property Address] is [Property Owner's Full Name], who is [Relationship to the Family Member, e.g., the parent, sibling, or child of the family member]. This close family connection ensures that the proposed siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property is not for commercial purposes or unrelated residential occupation, but rather for the direct benefit and support of the family member.

By providing additional living space for [Family Member's Full Name] within the garden of the property, the property owner can maintain close contact and provide the necessary support and assistance, as needed. This arrangement also enables [Family Member's Full Name] to enjoy a sense of independence and autonomy while residing in the mobile home caravan, fostering a strong and positive relationship between the family members and ensuring the long-term well-being and happiness of all parties involved.

In conclusion, the proposed siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property at [Property Address] is justified by the genuine need for additional living space for a family member with close ties to the property owner. The development is in accordance with planning policies and guidance related to ancillary residential uses and promotes the welfare and happiness of the family members involved.

Compliance with Planning Policy and Local Authority Guidelines

This section provides an analysis of the relevant planning policies and guidelines at both the local and national levels in relation to the proposed siting of a mobile home caravan within the garden of the property at [Property Address]. By demonstrating compliance with these policies and guidelines, we aim to establish that the proposed development is appropriate, sustainable, and in line with the planning objectives for the area.

Analysis of Relevant Planning Policies and Guidelines

1. National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF): The NPPF sets out the government's planning policies for England and provides a framework within which locally-prepared plans for housing and other development can be produced. The NPPF promotes sustainable development, which includes providing a sufficient supply of homes to meet the needs of present and future generations. The proposed siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property contributes to meeting these objectives by providing additional living space for a family member without requiring the development of new land or infrastructure.
2. Local Plan: The Local Plan for [Local Authority Area] sets out the local planning authority's policies for managing development and growth within the area. It is essential to consider the relevant policies within the Local Plan to ensure that the proposed development aligns with the local planning objectives. Key policies that may apply to the siting of a mobile home caravan within the garden of a property include:

a. Policy on Housing: This policy may encourage the efficient use of land and support the provision of housing to meet the needs of the local population, including the accommodation of family members within the same property or its curtilage.

b. Policy on Design and Amenity: This policy may require that the proposed development respects the character of the surrounding area, protects the amenity of nearby residents, and maintains a high standard of design. The mobile home caravan should be designed and sited in a manner that meets these criteria.

Demonstration of Compliance with Planning Policies and Guidelines

The proposed siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property at [Property Address] is in compliance with the relevant planning policies and guidelines, as demonstrated below:

1. Sustainable Development: By providing additional living space for a family member within the existing property boundary, the proposal aligns with the NPPF's objectives for sustainable development. The mobile home caravan allows for the efficient use of land and resources without the need for new infrastructure or the development of greenfield sites.
2. Housing Provision: The proposal supports the Local Plan's policy on housing by contributing to the local housing supply and accommodating the needs of the property owner's family member. This arrangement promotes social cohesion and the well-being of the local community.
3. Design and Amenity: The mobile home caravan will be designed and sited in a manner that respects the character of the surrounding area and protects the amenity of nearby residents. Careful consideration will be given to the visual impact, privacy, and noise implications of the proposed development to ensure compliance with the Local Plan's policy on design and amenity.

In conclusion, the proposed siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property at [Property Address] complies with the relevant planning policies and guidelines at both the local and national levels. The development is sustainable, provides additional living space for a family member, and respects the character and amenity of the surrounding area.

Impact on Surrounding Area

This section provides an assessment of the potential impact of the proposed mobile home caravan on the character and appearance of the property and its surrounding area. By considering factors such as visual impact, privacy, noise, and overall compatibility with the local environment, we aim to demonstrate that the proposed development is appropriate and does not result in any significant adverse effects on the surrounding area.

Visual Impact

The mobile home caravan will be designed and sited to minimise its visual impact on the property and the surrounding area. Careful consideration will be given to factors such as the size, design, and materials of the mobile home caravan, as well as its location within the garden, to ensure that it is in keeping with the character of the property and the local environment.

Appropriate landscaping and screening measures, such as the use of trees, shrubs, and fencing, will be employed to further reduce the visual impact of the mobile home caravan and help it blend seamlessly into the garden setting. This approach will ensure that the proposed development does not detract from the character and appearance of the property or the surrounding area.

Privacy and Overlooking

To protect the privacy of the property owner, the family member residing in the mobile home caravan, and the occupants of neighbouring properties, the proposed development will be designed and sited to minimise the potential for overlooking and loss of privacy. This may be achieved by careful consideration of factors such as the orientation and positioning of windows and doors, as well as the use of appropriate screening measures, such as boundary treatments and landscaping.

Noise and Disturbance

The proposed mobile home caravan will be designed and constructed to minimise the potential for noise and disturbance to the occupants of the property and neighbouring properties. This may include the use of appropriate insulation materials and soundproofing measures, as well as careful consideration of the internal layout of the mobile home caravan to ensure that noise-sensitive rooms, such as bedrooms, are located away from potential sources of noise and disturbance.

Compatibility with Surrounding Area

The proposed mobile home caravan will be designed and sited in a manner that is compatible with the character and appearance of the property and its surrounding area. By considering factors such as visual impact, privacy, noise, and overall compatibility with the local environment, the proposed development will not result in any significant adverse effects on the surrounding area.

In conclusion, the proposed siting of the mobile home caravan within the garden of the property at [Property Address] will have minimal impact on the surrounding area. Through careful design and siting considerations, the development will respect the character and appearance of the property and its surroundings, protect the privacy and amenity of nearby residents, and minimise any potential noise and disturbance.

Precedent and Supporting Cases

In this section, we will reference a selection of relevant precedent and similar cases within the area or jurisdiction of the local planning authority. These cases demonstrate that the proposed siting of a mobile home caravan in the garden of the property for use by a family member is both reasonable and in line with planning policy.

Mead v. Secretary of State for the Environment [1988] JPL 838:
In this case, the High Court examined the relationship between a mobile home caravan and a main dwelling in the context of ancillary use. The court ruled that the mobile home caravan could be considered ancillary to the main dwelling if there was a "functional connection" between the two, taking into account factors such as shared facilities and the purpose of the mobile home caravan. This case provides valuable guidance on the factors that determine whether a mobile home caravan is ancillary to a main dwelling and highlights the importance of establishing a clear functional connection between the two.

Welch v. Secretary of State for the Environment [1995] JPL 146: In this case, the High Court considered whether the siting of a mobile home caravan within the residential curtilage of a property constituted a material change of use. The court ruled that the use of the mobile home caravan as a "granny annexe" for an elderly relative did not involve a material change of use, as it remained ancillary to the main dwelling and did not create a separate residential unit. This case provides further insight into the factors that inform the assessment of material change of use in relation to mobile home caravans and ancillary accommodation, emphasising the importance of the relationship between the mobile home caravan and the main dwelling.

Fidler v. Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government and Others [2008] EWHC 2224 (Admin):
This case clarified the approach to immunity from enforcement action after a continuous breach of planning control for four or ten years, depending on the type of development. The judgment in this case underlines the importance of considering the duration of the breach and the nature of the development in determining whether enforcement action can be taken against a breach of planning control. While the case does not directly involve mobile home caravans or ancillary accommodation, it provides valuable context for understanding the concept of immunity from enforcement action and its implications for planning law and policy.

R (o.t.a. Chelmsford) v. First Secretary of State [2003] EWHC 2972 (Admin)
In this case, the High Court considered the test for determining whether a mobile home caravan was considered a separate dwelling or an extension of the existing dwelling. The court held that the key factor to consider was the degree of physical and functional integration between the mobile home caravan and the main dwelling. The case emphasizes the importance of considering how the mobile home caravan is connected to the main dwelling in terms of access, shared facilities, and other factors that demonstrate a functional relationship.

Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government v. Cheshire East Council [2016] EWHC 571 (Admin)
In this case, the High Court considered the test for determining whether a mobile home caravan should be considered a separate dwelling or ancillary to the main dwelling. The court noted that a mobile home caravan's use must be "incidental" to the main dwelling, which means that the use of the mobile home caravan must be subordinate to the main dwelling and not an independent residential unit. This case provides further guidance on the factors that determine whether a mobile home caravan is ancillary to a main dwelling and highlights the importance of demonstrating that the use of the mobile home caravan is subordinate to the main dwelling.