Self-build dwelling at Hillside Stables Hillside Road Frensham Farnham Erection of a self / custom-build dwelling together with associated

What was proposed

The application sought a self-build dwelling with landscaping after demolishing stable-related buildings and removing a chicken coop, hardstanding and equestrian items.

“WA/2026/00375 – Erection of a self / custom-build dwelling together with associated landscaping following demolition of an existing stable block, tack room and hay barn and the removal of an existing chicken coop, areas of hardstanding and equestrian paraphernalia. at HILLSIDE STABLES HILLSIDE ROAD FRENSHAM FARNHAM”

“The application seeks permission for: ‒ Erection of a self / custom build dwelling together with associated landscaping following demolition of an existing stable block, tack room and hay barn and the removal of an existing chicken coop, areas of hardstanding and equestrian paraphernalia.”

Officer report

The site

The site contains a stable building and access beside paddocks, woodland and scrub, with nearby homes including a Grade II listed dwelling.

“The site includes the stable building and associated access south of Hillside Road. The site is flanked to the east and west by grassland paddocks with post and rail fencing with areas of broadleaved woodland and scattered scrub to the south. A previous planning permission on the site granted permission for the use of the site for equestrian purposes.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

A 2024 conversion proposal was refused but allowed on appeal, while an earlier new dwelling proposal was refused and its appeal dismissed.

“Reference Proposal Decision WA/2024/01657 Alterations to convert existing stable block, tack room and hay barn to provide a single independent dwelling together with landscaping and associated works.”

“WA/2022/01730 Erection of a dwelling ,detached garage with ancillary accommodation above and associated access, parking and landscaping. REFUSED (16/12/2022) APPEAL DISMISSED (26/09/2023) WA/2011/0537 Change of use of land from agricultural purposes to the keeping of horses for private equestrian purposes; erection of stables, replacement field shelter, entrance gate & piers and formation of vehicular access and parking area (as amplified by email dated 18/07/2011 and letter…”

Officer report

Countryside and neighbours

Officers said the larger footprint would not cause countryside or settlement coalescence harm, and the single-storey dwelling would not harm neighbouring residential amenity.

“The proposed dwelling would result in an increase in a notably larger built footprint from around 66.4m2 as consented under WA/2024/01657 to approximately 137m2. However, a numerical increase in built footprint does not equate to countryside harm.”

“Given the separation from adjacent residential properties (closest property is the Old Granary 32m away) and single-storey form, no harm to residential amenity by way of loss of light, loss of privacy or overbearing appearance would occur.”

Officer report

Consultees’ views

The rights of way and trees officers raised no objection, subject to conditions, while the town council noted the earlier appeal permission and revised layout.

“Consultees Comments Farnham Town Council ‒ Notes that an appeal was allowed in November 2025 for a single storey dwelling under WA/2024/01657. This application maintains the front elevation with additional accommodation to the rear. (01/04/2026) Surrey Rights of Way Officer No objection. (20/03/2026) WBC Trees and Landscape Officer No objection (subject to conditions) (27/03/2026)”

Officer report

Who spoke

Two councillors made representations as ward councillors.

The committee vote

Following debate, the committee voted unanimously in favour of the officers’ recommendation, with 12 votes supporting it.

“Following debate, the Committee voted unanimously in favour of the officers recommendation to grant permission 12 in favour.”

Minutes

What was decided

The committee granted permission subject to conditions 1 to 11 and informatives 1 and 2.

“Subject to conditions 1-11 and informatives 1-2, permission be GRANTED”

Minutes