Serviced Plots for Self-Build in Stornoway
If you want to build your own home in Stornoway, the hardest part is usually finding a plot with permission, access and services already sorted. Land to Homes plans serviced plots for self-build and custom build on suitable sites. We have no plots available yet, but you can register interest and tell us what you are looking for.
Stornoway · HS1Free site appraisal
Tell us about your land and we will call you back. No cost, no obligation.
Prefer to talk? Call 0800 088 6248.
- Free site appraisalNo cost, no obligation
- Legal fees coveredReasonable fees, on options and promotion
- Nothing to pay upfrontOn promotion: we fund planning
- Direct purchaseSuitable sites, with or without planning
- UK-wideEngland, Wales, Scotland and NI
Sites we take on near Stornoway
Stornoway (HS1) is one of the Highlands & Islands towns we cover, about 94 miles north-west of Inverness. The nearest other places we cover are Inverness (94 miles), Thurso (107 miles) and Fort William (107 miles).
Projects we can take on around Stornoway include sites that need a fresh planning strategy, in-principle consents that still need detailed approval and plots where access or drainage is the sticking point. In Scotland, where Stornoway sits, planning decisions are made by the council as planning authority (or a national park authority in its area).
If you have a site near Stornoway that is stuck, a short call is the best place to start.
What we offer in Stornoway
Landowners welcome
If your land could suit self-build plots, our free site appraisal explains the options, including a direct purchase, an option or a promotion agreement.
Self-build or custom build
Build the home yourself with your own builder and architect, or choose a more complete custom build package where one is offered on the site.
Design rules up front
Where a site has a design code or plot passport, we set out the rules before you commit, so you know what the planning permission allows.
Services at the boundary
Plots are planned with road access and connections for water, drainage and electricity, so you are not left negotiating with utility companies on your own.
Planning and land rules in Stornoway
In Scotland, planning applications for land around Stornoway are decided by the council as planning authority, using National Planning Framework 4 and the Local Development Plan, which together form the statutory development plan. Instead of outline permission, Scotland uses planning permission in principle, followed by approval of matters specified in conditions. Land to Homes can buy suitable sites directly or promote land through planning, and every conversation starts with a free site appraisal.
In Scotland, planning authorities keep self-build lists recording people who want to build their own home, and National Planning Framework 4 and the Local Development Plan guide where new homes can go. Plots need a building warrant before work starts, land is bought through missives, and Land and Buildings Transaction Tax may be payable. Planning permission in principle can establish whether plots are acceptable.
| Who decides applications | The council as planning authority (or a national park authority in its area) |
|---|---|
| In-principle consent | Planning permission in principle (PPP), followed by approval of matters specified in conditions |
| Land registration | Registers of Scotland (Land Register of Scotland) |
| Developer contributions | Section 75 planning obligations, with Section 69 agreements sometimes used for simple one-off payments |
Serviced Plots for Self-Build in Stornoway: questions
Can I get a mortgage for a self-build plot?
Many lenders offer self-build mortgages that release money in stages as the build progresses, but criteria vary and a standard mortgage will not usually work. You will normally need planning permission, a detailed budget and a warranty or professional supervision in place. A mortgage broker or adviser can explain the options; we cannot give financial advice.
Can I sell part of my land as self-build plots?
Yes, if the land has planning prospects and suitable access. A few plots can suit land on a village edge or a large garden. Our free site appraisal looks at whether plots would work and whether a direct sale to us, an option or a promotion agreement is the right route. On option and promotion agreements we pay your reasonable legal fees.
What is the difference between self-build and custom build?
With self-build, you organise the design and construction of your home yourself, either doing some of the work or hiring a builder. With custom build, a developer provides more of the package, such as a serviced plot, a range of designs and sometimes the construction itself, while you make the key choices. The line between the two is not always sharp.
Do you have self-build plots for sale now?
Not yet. Land to Homes is a new venture and has no plots, homes or developments for sale at the moment. You can register interest with your preferred area and the kind of plot you want, and we will contact you if we bring forward plots that match. Registering is free and commits you to nothing.
Do you take on planning and building work in Stornoway?
Yes, on sites we buy, option, promote or develop in partnership in Stornoway and elsewhere in Highlands & Islands, including Fort William, Thurso and Kirkwall. We do not take on planning or building work for third parties as a consultancy.
Read more: Serviced Plots for Self-Build · Guide: Buying a new-build home: what to expect from reservation to keys