Self-build and custom housebuilding register

We have a duty to keep a register of people or associations seeking serviced plots of land in Medway to self or custom build their own home that will be their only or main residence.

The register provides useful information on the level of demand for self-build and custom housebuilding in Medway. We’ll consider this when deciding on planning applications for housing and when allocating land for different development types in the Medway Local Plan. Using the evidence from the register, we'll be including a policy dedicated to the delivery of self-build and custom housebuilding plots for people who wish to build their own home in Medway.

What self-build and custom housebuilding is

Self-build is generally where the owner is directly involved with and/or manages the design and construction of their new home.

The custom housebuilding approach is where the owner commissions the construction of their home from a developer, builder, contractor or package company, who builds the property to the owner’s specifications. With custom build the occupants do not usually carry out any of the physical construction work but still make key design decisions.

What a serviced plot of land is

The plot must have access to a public highway and connections for electricity, water and wastewater or, in the opinion of a relevant authority, can be provided with access to those things within the duration of a development permission granted in relation to that land.

The benefits of being on the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Register

It will help to inform us of the level of demand for plots in Medway, along with preferences on location and plot size, for example. The level of demand will inform the policy in the emerging Local Plan to deliver a sufficient number of plots both now and in coming years.

Applicants on the register will be advised when plots in locations they have specified become available to buy.

Things to consider

  • Self and custom build projects will still be subject to the same planning requirements and obligations as standard residential planning applications
  • We will keep your details on record and notify you if a suitable plot becomes available
  • We will try to find suitable plots to offer those on the register but there is no guarantee of when or if we will find suitable sites
  • We will not share your personal contact details without your permission
  • When plots are identified, they will be available at market value unless they're part of an affordable scheme 
  • Applicants will need to finance the purchase of land and construction of the development themselves
  • When considering if a home is a self-build or custom build home, we must be satisfied that the initial owner of the home will have primary input into its final design and layout.

Guidance on self-build and custom housebuilding

You can get extra guidance on self build and custom housebuilding legislation using the following links:

You can get more guidance on the following websites: