News & Planning Updates
Stunning New Replacement Dwelling Completed at the Foot of Watership Down
A remarkable new architectural project has officially come to life at the foot of the historic Watership Down escarpment. Following successful planning approval back in 2024, construction on the Shepherds Cottage replacement dwelling is now complete. The project was brought to fruition through a close collaboration with Urban Curve Architecture. Located in Sydmonton, part of the Burghclere Estate, the completed home sits within the heart of the North Wessex Downs National Landscape (formerly AONB). The finished building successfully responds to this striking setting, blending modern living with the natural beauty of the landscape. Click here…
New Thanet Local Plan
Scoping Consultation
(24 August to 9 October 2026)
The Council has launched a new consultation to inform the new Local Plan for Thanet. This has commenced with a ‘Call for Sites’ where the Council gather information on the availability of land that could potentially be included within the new Development Plan as a policy allocation (including residential and/or commercial development).
If you are a landowner or developer, Rebus Planning Solutions can provide you with professional advice and advocacy to ensure your potential development interests are clearly and effectively represented throughout the Local Plan Review process. Please contact us to discuss how we may be able to assist.
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Client Reminder
Planning Application Fees Rising 8th December 2026
Planning application fees in England are going up again on 8 December 2026, following an inflation-linked 3.8% increase earlier this year.
Householder Applications: Rising by c.8% (an additional £27 for standard alterations).
Discharge of Conditions: Increasing to £125 for householder applications and £435 for other development types.
Section 73 Applications: Major development variations will jump to £3,150.
Maximum Fee Cap: The upper limit for large-scale applications is rising by 25%, from £427,537 to £513,512.
Importantly: Developers should note that the upcoming December fees establish a baseline fee structure rather than a uniform national ceiling. The government has granted local planning authorities the power to levy independent premiums of up to 30% over standard rates, contingent on evidence of higher local operating costs. Going forward, accurate financial forecasting for 2027 developments will require a council-by-council assessment of specific planning fees.
The good news is that there will be a slight reduction in fees for residential development! But be aware: while the draft regulations introduce minor per-unit adjustments downward for standard full applications, the overall upper budget cap for major residential developments has increased significantly (as noted above).