Checking Planning Regulations:
- If buying a site without Outline Planning Approval, first check area planning regulations for zoning and locals-only requirements in ROI (not an issue in NI).
Site Viability Factors:
Consider if the site is sloping, sheltered, narrow, or has difficult soil conditions, including underground water courses.Avoid flood-prone areas.
Site Contamination and Environmental Issues:
- Check for contamination on the site (e.g., brownfield sites).
- Examine potential environmental issues, such as compliance with EU nature laws or impacts on protected areas like areas of outstanding natural beauty or Natura 2000 areas.