Selecting the right location is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make at the start of any development project. Whether you’re planning a residential housing scheme, a commercial unit, or a mixed-use build, your chosen site will directly influence the success, cost, and efficiency of the entire project.
At Sherford Building and Developments, we support developers across the South West from day one. Below, we outline the key factors to help you make a confident and informed site selection for your next development project.
Prioritise Location and Demand
Start by evaluating the site’s location. Is the area suitable for the kind of development you plan to deliver? For residential schemes, nearby schools, public transport, green spaces, and local amenities are essential. If you’re building commercial premises, focus on visibility, access, and customer footfall.
You should also research the area’s long-term potential. Look into planned infrastructure projects or regeneration efforts. Choosing a site in a growing or revitalised location can improve your project’s long-term return on investment.
Understand Planning Permission and Zoning
Always check the local planning designation before proceeding. Planning authorities allocate specific land uses—residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural. Each classification comes with its own permissions and limitations.
At Sherford Building and Developments, we encourage clients to consult with planning officers early. Engaging with the local authority helps prevent setbacks and highlights any potential objections before submission.
Evaluate Buildability and Site Conditions
What looks like an ideal site on the surface may present challenges during construction. You’ll need to assess the land’s slope, soil stability, flood risk, and access. Commissioning a full site survey—such as topographical and geotechnical assessments—will reveal these conditions early.
We work with clients during this feasibility stage to flag construction risks and advise on practical solutions. Identifying issues at this stage protects your timeline and budget later on.
Check Access to Utilities and Infrastructure
A well-positioned site also needs reliable access to key services—such as water, gas, electricity, drainage, and broadband. If the site lacks connections, you could face significant costs and delays.
Always confirm utility availability before purchasing. Also consider construction access and how people will enter the site once it’s complete, especially in rural or landlocked areas.
Identify Legal and Environmental Restrictions
Don’t overlook legal or environmental constraints. For example, some sites sit within conservation areas or include protected trees. Others may involve restrictive covenants, boundary disputes, or public rights of way.
Ask your legal adviser to carry out a full title and covenant search. This step ensures the land is free from encumbrances that could derail your development project later.
In Summary
Choosing the right site is the foundation of any successful development project. With careful consideration of location, planning constraints, physical site conditions, and legal issues, you’ll be far better placed to deliver a smooth and profitable build.
At Sherford Building and Developments, we support clients from site selection through to project completion. Get in touch with our experienced team to discuss how we can help bring your development project to life with confidence.
