Barn Conversion Reforms Welcomed
Government proposals to allow farm buildings to be transformed into homes without the need for planning permission have been welcomed by land agency firm Strutt & Parker.
The extension of permitted development rights designed to bring empty and underused buildings back to life in rural areas is part of a package of measures designed to give people greater flexibility in changes of use for buildings. The proposals were laid out by Planning Minister Nick Boles last week (August 7).
The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) is inviting comment on the consultation, plans for which were announced in Chancellor George Osborne’s Budget on March 20. It closes on October 15, 2013.
The reforms will apply to existing buildings used for agricultural purposes of up to 150 sq m. The proposals allow for the conversion of farm buildings into a maximum of three homes; no single home can be bigger than 150 sq m. The buildings in question must have been built before the intention to consult was announced in the Budget Statement. Farm buildings up to 500 sq m can be converted into state-funded schools or nurseries providing childcare.
Anyone who converts a barn will lose their agricultural permitted development rights for a decade.
Jack Tavernor, partner in Strutt & Parker’s Shrewsbury office, said the proposals gave farmers more flexibility and could boost the rural economy as a result. He said: “We are delighted that the Government has recognised the need for a presumption in favour of the reuse and development of redundant farm buildings for alternative uses. We see this as a very positive step forward and look forward to seeing the results of the consultation.
“This is potentially a great opportunity for many farmers and landowning clients wondering what to do with empty and underused buildings, of which there are many across the countryside. The devil will be in the detail, and nothing is confirmed as yet, but it is worth bearing the possibility in mind when considering estate and farm strategy as it opens up avenues – and potential income streams – which were previously unavailable or just too complicated to consider.
“It seems to be a very sensible option which not only allows farmers to make use of buildings otherwise largely inefficient for modern farming but also helps combat the lack of housing in rural areas.”
The proposals include provisions to change buildings used for shops, financial and professional services into homes while offices, hotels, residential and non-residential institutions could also be turned into nurseries.
For further information please call Mr Tavernor in Strutt & Parker’s Shrewsbury office on 01743 284204.
