Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Register
About Self-build and Custom Housebuilding and the Register
Self-build and Custom build housing is where individuals or groups of individuals are involved in the design and/or build of their home (which is then occupied by those individuals). This may be through an appointed specialist developer or they may be directly involved in the build themselves.
Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Guidance Note
On 5 December 2023, the Council’s Cabinet resolved to endorse a new Guidance Note on Self-build and Custom Housebuilding for the borough. The document is aimed at providing guidance to applicants, decision makers and residents regarding self-build and custom housebuilding.
It does not form part of the development plan for Welwyn Hatfield, but it is considered to be a material consideration that may be taken into account when determining planning applications.
What is the purpose of the Register?
Under the Self-Build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015, local authorities are required to keep a register of people and groups of people who are seeking to purchase serviced plots of land to build their own home in the local authority area.
The register helps the Council understand the demand for serviced plots of land within the borough and going forward, to contact interested parties on the register if suitable land becomes available.
What to expect from joining the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Register
The register does not operate as a waiting list and registration does not guarantee that a suitable plot will be identified or become available. Whilst the Council has a duty to grant sufficient permissions for self-build and custom housebuilding plots, there is no requirement for a permission to specifically relate to the preferences expressed by those on the Register.
When self-build opportunities in Welwyn Hatfield are made known to the Council, we will contact applicants directly (where they have indicated that they wish to be kept informed).
What is the Council doing to deliver plots?
The Council does not have land within its ownership readily available for self-build and it is therefore seeking, through the Local Plan, to adopt a policy which will ensure that future developments over a certain size make provision for self-build plots.