Hackwood in Roddersbridge was originally commissioned as a rear extension and full renovation of a dated two-bedroom bungalow. The homeowner wanted to modernise and enlarge the property to create a more spacious and functional home.
Robertsbridge, East Sussex
12 months
November 2021
However, during early investigations, a significant issue was discovered beneath the existing slab. The original property had gypsum stone beneath the floor structure, a material known to cause floor heave and structural movement over time.
At that point, the project required a critical reassessment.
Rather than proceeding with an expensive extension built onto a compromised substructure, Bellco Construction advised a more strategic approach: resubmitting for planning permission to demolish the existing bungalow and rebuild as a new chalet-style home.
It proved to be the right decision.
What started as an extension project evolved into a full replacement dwelling.
By demolishing and rebuilding, the client benefited from:
The VAT saving alone, 20% compared to the original extension proposal, effectively covered the demolition and rebuild costs, making the new build option more cost-effective overall.
This is where experience matters.
Understanding planning strategy, VAT regulations and long-term structural performance allowed us to guide the client toward a smarter investment.
Bellco Construction delivered the project in full, including:
The new chalet bungalow provided significantly improved accommodation compared to the original cramped two-bedroom property.
The redesign allowed for:
Rather than attempting to adapt a compromised building, the client now benefits from a purpose-built home designed for longevity.
The client had a strict budget requirement from the outset.
Throughout the project, we:
Our approach ensures clients understand not only what is being built, but why certain decisions create better long-term value.
We do not simply build what is drawn.
We advise, refine and protect our clients’ investment.
Gypsum beneath floor slabs can lead to:
Identifying this issue early prevented the client from investing heavily into an extension that would have remained structurally vulnerable.
By removing the entire substructure and rebuilding correctly, the long-term risk was eliminated.
Hackwood is now a structurally secure, modern chalet bungalow that meets current building standards and benefits from a 10-year structural warranty.
The client achieved:
What initially appeared to be a complication ultimately became an opportunity to deliver a far stronger solution.
Hackwood demonstrates Bellco Construction’s expertise in:
This is the difference between simply constructing and truly delivering value.
If you’re exploring extending your home but are unsure whether renovation or replacement is the smarter option, speak to Bellco Construction.
Our experience in new build construction, structural remediation and planning strategy ensures your investment is protected from day one.
We’d love to hear about your site or project. Whether you’re exploring a potential land sale, seeking a development partner, or simply curious about what’s possible, we’re here to help with honest advice and a free land appraisal.
