Can I Build in My Garden in Essex?

Large residential garden in Essex with potential for development

Can you build in your garden in Essex? Large gardens, side plots and unused space can sometimes hold development potential. Find out what affects planning and what your garden could be worth.

What Can I Build on My Land in Colchester?

Land with development potential in Colchester Essex including garden and side plot opportunities

Own land in Colchester? Large gardens, side plots and small parcels of land can often hold hidden development potential. Find out what may be possible and what your land could be worth with planning.

Do I Need Planning Permission for Storage Containers? (UK Guide 2025)

Quick answer: Do you need planning permission for storage containers? Often, yes. Planning permission is usually required where storage containers are placed on land long-term, used for commercial storage or self-storage, or where they result in a material change of use under UK planning law. Permission may not be required where containers are genuinely temporary […]

How Much Does a Tree Survey Cost in 2025? BS5837, Mortgage & Risk Survey Prices Explained

Tree survey cost ranges for BS5837, mortgage and risk surveys in 2025

Tree surveys are now a standard requirement for many planning applications across England – especially where development, access, or demolition takes place near existing trees. Costs can range from a few hundred pounds for a simple BS5837 survey to several thousand for complex or heavily constrained sites. This guide explains what a tree survey actually […]

Government Announces Major Acceleration in Housing Delivery: What This Means for Landowners in Essex and the East of England

1 acre of land in the UK showing development potential and land value differences based on planning permission

Government Housing Announcements On 18 November 2025, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) outlined a significant shift in housing and planning policy. The Government reiterated its commitment to delivering 1.5 million new homes this Parliament and confirmed that multiple programmes are now in motion to speed up delivery, cut through planning delays, […]

Commercial Property Agents in Chelmsford

Chelmsford city centre and business district showing offices of local commercial property agents

Quick answer: Chelmsford is served by a number of established commercial property agents covering sales, lettings, and investment property. The right commercial property agent depends on your asset type, timescale, and whether your priority is a straightforward sale or maximising longer-term value through planning and strategy. A Practical 2025 Guide for Commercial Property Owners and […]

How to Value a Commercial Yard or Storage Site (2025 Guide)

Aerial photo of UK commercial storage yard used to illustrate valuation guide

Valuing a commercial yard, open storage site, or small industrial plot can be challenging – especially when planning potential and lawful use aren’t fully understood. Unlike standard commercial buildings, these assets often hide additional value that only becomes visible once the planning and use class position is clear. This 2025 guide explains how to estimate […]

How to Rent Out a Yard, Barn, or Small Industrial Unit in Colchester (2025 Guide)

Rural barn and open yard near Colchester prepared for commercial letting

Many landowners in and around Colchester are discovering that unused barns, yards, and small industrial units can generate steady income if rented correctly. Whether your property sits near Stanway, Severalls, Hythe, or the A120, the key to success lies in planning compliance and market positioning.   1. Establish lawful use or planning status Before advertising […]