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Planning, design and build · Scottish Borders

Serviced Plots for Self-Build in Kelso

Are serviced self-build plots coming forward in Kelso?

If you want to build your own home in Kelso, 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.

Aerial view of a housing site with plots at different build stages and a site compoundKelso · TD5

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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

Planning and building around Kelso

Kelso sits about 15 miles east of Galashiels in Scottish Borders, in the TD5 postcode district. Close by, our coverage also takes in Galashiels, Hawick and Peebles.

Projects we can take on around Kelso include sites where the layout needs to change, land with an expired or ageing consent and in-principle consents that still need detailed approval. Because Kelso is in Scotland, land titles are registered with Registers of Scotland (Land Register of Scotland) and transfers attract Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT).

If you have a site near Kelso that is stuck, a short call is the best place to start.

Our approach in Kelso

Part of larger schemes

On bigger developments, serviced plots can sit alongside homes for sale, rent and affordable tenures, sharing the same roads and services.

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.

Planning made clear

We aim to bring plots forward with planning permission in place, or with a clear set of rules, often called a plot passport, describing what can be built.

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.

Planning and land rules in Kelso

Scottish land deals differ from the rest of the UK in a few ways: contracts are concluded by missives, consent in principle is called planning permission in principle, and developer contributions use Section 75 agreements. Land to Homes works within those rules around Kelso, whether buying a suitable site directly with no onward chain, subject to survey, title and contract, or promoting it through planning with nothing to pay upfront. Planning permission is never guaranteed, so we explain the risks plainly.

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.

Key rules in Kelso
National planning policyNational Planning Framework 4 (NPF4), which forms part of the statutory development plan
Local planning documentLocal Development Plan (LDP)
Who decides applicationsThe council as planning authority (or a national park authority in its area)
In-principle consentPlanning permission in principle (PPP), followed by approval of matters specified in conditions

Your questions answered for Kelso

What is a serviced plot?

A serviced plot is a piece of land ready for a single home, with access to a road and connections for services such as water, drainage and electricity at or near the boundary. In England, the Right to Build legislation defines a serviced plot by reference to access to a public highway and those utility connections, or the ability to provide them.

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.

Is there a self-build register in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?

In Scotland, planning authorities keep self-build lists of people interested in building their own home, which inform local planning. Wales and Northern Ireland do not have a statutory register like England's, although some councils may still record interest, and self-build plots are assessed through normal planning policy. Check with your local council.

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 Kelso?

Yes, on sites we buy, option, promote or develop in partnership in Kelso and elsewhere in Scottish Borders, including Peebles, Hawick and Galashiels. We do not take on planning or building work for third parties as a consultancy.

Read more: Serviced Plots for Self-Build · Guide: Tax when selling land for development

Serviced Plots for Self-Build elsewhere in Scottish Borders

Own land that could take new homes?

Start with a free, no-obligation site appraisal. On option and promotion agreements we fund the planning work and pay your reasonable legal fees.

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