New Government proposals should make it easier to convert redundant farm buildings into residential accommodation. Planning Minister Nick Boles has announced plans to relax permitted development rights (PDR) so that agricultural buildings (and shops) of up to 150sq m (1,615sq ft) can be converted without full planning consent. However, the outbuildings must not be in conservation areas such as national parks and AONBs and local authorities will still have a say on siting, design and the impact on traffic, neighbours and the environment.
Andrew Shirley of Knight Frank says the policy should bring significant advantages. ‘Buildings that no longer fit into modern farming systems have long been an underutilized asset. Although these proposals won't benefit every redundant barn, anything that increases the flexibility for conversion has to be welcomed.'
The CLA says the move will boost the rural economy and the NFU comments that it shows the Government trusts farmers ‘to do the right thing'. The public consultation closes on October 15 (www.gov.uk/government/consultations).
* Follow Country Life magazine on Twitter
-
380 acres and 90 bedrooms on the £25m private island being sold by one of Britain's top music producersStormzy, Rihanna and the Rolling Stones are just a part of the story at Osea Island, a dot on the map in the seas off Essex.
-
'A delicious chance to step back in time and bask in the best of Britain': An insider's guide to The SeasonHere's how to navigate this summer's top events in style, from those who know best.
