Rural self-builders 'need to be sensitive'

When building your own property in the countryside it is very important to be sensitive to the needs of the already existing rural community, according to one expert.

The Countryside Alliance, which promotes rural concerns, says that increasing numbers of city dwellers are moving to the UK's countryside to escape urban life and while newcomers can be beneficial to communities, they also need to ensure they are not disruptive.

"As rural communities expand, they do not necessarily need to lose their character. As more houses are built, it is essential to ensure that they are created in a sympathetic style to the houses that have already been built in the area," said a spokesperson from the Countryside Alliance.

She added that sensible planning can easily avoid generic housing across rural Britain, and ensure that the character that so many people seek is protected.

"Planning and building must be sensitive to the needs of incomers and existing communities" and where new-build exists, it should be close to existing communities and services, not just houses thrown up on spare land.



© Adfero Ltd