Latch Architects Secures Unanimous Approval at Rossendale Planning Committee 

We’re pleased to share that our residential conversion proposal for The Creamery, a non-designated heritage asset in Rossendale, was approved unanimously at the planning committee last week.

This project reflects our approach to sensitive reuse, collaborative engagement with stakeholders and a firm understanding of how to align design with local planning policy. 

So, How Did We Secure Approval?

Achieving unanimous support at the planning committee doesn’t happen by chance. Our success was the result of careful preparation, collaboration, and responsiveness.

From the outset, we engaged closely with Rossendale Planning Authority and the Rossendale Civic Trust to address their initial design comments. We took on board feedback from both officials and local residents, refining the scheme to retain the building’s character while delivering two high-quality homes.

This collaborative approach helped build trust and demonstrated our commitment to preserving the site’s heritage as a non-designated asset, all while meeting policy requirements. Clear communication, thorough documentation, and proactive problem-solving were key ingredients in securing a smooth approval process.
 

Policy-Led Design That Delivers

Key to the proposal’s success was aligning with multiple key polices within Rossendale adopted Local Plan:

Policy SD1: Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

The site is within the urban boundary, and the reuse of an existing structure represents sustainable and efficient land use.

Policy SD2: Urban Boundary

Residential development is supported in this location, helping the borough meet housing targets on previously developed land.

Policy ENV1: High Quality Development in the Built Environment

Retaining façade features and material character helps preserve local distinctiveness and architectural detailing.

Policy TR4: Parking

The scheme includes two separate off-street parking spaces with EV charging readiness, safe pedestrian access, and preservation of all six original gateway piers.

Policy ENV6: Climate Change and Low Carbon Development

The site’s conversion approach reduces embodied carbon and supports the borough’s climate goals with EV infrastructure.

How to Win at Planning Committee: Practical Tips and template guide

Here’s what helped us secure a unanimous approval, and what you can take forward:

Know the Planning Policy

Cite relevant Local Plan policies and explain how your design supports each one. Referencing them clearly (e.g. SD1, ENV1) shows your team understands the framework.

Collaborate Early and Respond to Feedback

We revised the façade and materials based on comments from the Civic Trust and case officer. Proactive design changes build trust and remove reasons for refusal.

Solve Issues, Don’t Dodge Them

Parking, privacy, and BNG were all addressed through clear drawings, planning conditions, and respectful dialogue. This reduces pressure on committee members.

Keep the Presentation Focused

At committee, your speech should be confident, concise, and accessible. Avoid jargon. Highlight benefits and confirm how concerns have been resolved.

Show You’re Invested

Attend in person or send someone knowledgeable. Our presence helped reassure members that the applicant was committed to delivering quality.