Land development ideas

[Major T]

I've inherited a decent plot of land and I would like to develop it, to some extent before selling on.

It's approx 3.5acres, very close to stansted airport/M11. Right now it has a slightly delapidated 3-bed house and some old farm outbuildings. about 1 acre has a convenant restricting building.

I think it would be best used for either airport parking, storage, car dealership, business park (offices or units), or hotel, or a mixture.
Neighbouring land is used for business parks (offices/warehouses) and car dealerships. Residential probably not ideal due to noise, sold prices for a few neighbouring houses are fairly low.

I don't have experience, yet, of doing anything on this scale. My goal is to at least plan land usage, divide into plots, get planning permission, sell plots to developers. I could maybe raise ~£50k if there's a good chance of getting a good return. I do have plenty of time, there's no rush.

I just wondered if anyone else has any similar experience or pointers! I imagine I should start by talking to the local council to get an idea of what would be accepted, and local estate agents which specialise in this sort of thing.

Cheers

[Major T]

Thanks for your reply.
I checked with the local council and the land is zoned S8 as follows, which suggests they'll be strict.

However, very large buildings were recently built nearby on land in the same zone, which suggests it is not an insurmountable hurdle.

Policy S8 – The Countryside Protection Zone
The area and boundaries of the Countryside Protection Zone around Stansted Airport are defined on the Proposals Map. In the Countryside Protection Zone planning permission will only be granted for development that is required to be there, or is appropriate to a rural area. There will be strict control on new development. In particular development will not be permitted if either of the following apply:
a) New buildings or uses would promote coalescence between the airport and existing development in the surrounding countryside;
b) It would adversely affect the open characteristics of the zone

[Major T]

I just wanted to say thanks for your replies, I've read them all with great interest!
You've helped guide me to the conclusion that this is a complex challenge, and that I should get pros involved, at least for the planning side.
I also previously had no idea about the various no-win-no-fee style arrangements that can be had with planners and developers; that could well be an attractive option to reduce risk and to help motivate a potential partner.
I look forward to meeting up with some local firms next.