Saffron Walden is one of the most heavily conservation-led towns in Uttlesford, and the planning environment reflects that. Uttlesford District Council reviews a steady caseload of small-scale infill, rear and side extensions on listed and conservation-area stock, and replacement housing where existing density makes light access a focus for case officers. The surrounding villages, from Newport through Wendens Ambo and out to Thaxted, follow a similar character with high heritage sensitivity throughout.
Our Essex team prepares these reports under RICS regulation, with BRE 209 (2022) as the working reference. Site attendance across the Uttlesford district runs faster than for London-led practices, and we have been delivering daylight and sunlight reports across the East of England since 2004. Where works also cross a shared boundary, party wall services sit alongside the daylight piece, handled by the same team.
Using the knowledge we have gained throughout our involvement in projects of differing size and complexities, we are able to apply the criteria within the BRE guidelines and produce comprehensive reports to accompany a planning application.
When assessing daylight and sunlight, we work with a professional team to try and achieve the best outcome for a site, whilst respecting the neighbouring properties’ access to daylight and sunlight. We will also provide advice on how the design of potential residential accommodation can ensure access to good levels of daylight and sunlight.
A Saffron Walden report starts with the proposed scheme drawings, an initial site appraisal, and a site visit where the conservation context cannot be fully read from the drawings. From there, a 3D model captures the development and the affected neighbouring properties, with the BRE 209 analysis running across daylight, sunlight, and overshadowing as the scheme requires.
Vertical Sky Component covers light to windows. Annual Probable Sunlight Hours covers sunlight to habitable rooms with relevant orientation. Overshadowing analysis tests amenity space under the 21 March sun position recommended in the guidance. Sunpath studies sit alongside where seasonal access matters, particularly on tight historic plots where orientation drives much of the result.
The report sets out methodology, figures, and design rationale where the numbers run below BRE 209 reference values. Typical turnaround is 2 to 3 weeks from instruction. A free initial assessment covers scope before any fee is set. This is a bespoke surveying service shaped to each scheme.
I have worked with CHP for a number of years, obtaining advice from them with regard to daylight and sunlight. They provide exactly what our clients require and work closely with us to resolve any issues, should they arise.
- Andrew Ryley , DLBP
Most schemes that materially affect neighbouring habitable rooms or amenity space will need a daylight and sunlight study to support the planning submission. Uttlesford District Council will not always request one at submission, but a borderline case is far easier to defend with the report already in the bundle and the methodology set out in advance for the case officer to consider on conservation-area sites in particular.
BRE 209 sets reference values, not legal thresholds, and shortfalls can be justified where the context supports the design. Reports are turned around in 2 to 3 weeks, and the free initial assessment is the way in for early advice or for a quick read on whether a full study is needed at this stage of the scheme.
Get in touch.
Head Office
2-6 Boundary Row
London, SE1 8HP
Essex Office
2-6 Boundary Row
London, SE1 8HP
020 3714 4090
Get in touch.
Head Office
2-6 Boundary Row
London, SE1 8HP
Essex Office
2nd Floor, 10 High Street
Wickford, Essex
SS12 9AZ
020 3714 4090
enquiries@chpsurveyors.com
