Barn Conversion and Class Q Permitted Development conversions can often be challenging to obtain planning permission for particularly as the locations are often where new buildings would not normally be allowed (eg. Green Belt or open countryside), the buildings themselves maybe historic or listed or, especially in the case of Class Q conversions, not initially obviously suitable for a change of use to business or residential.
Barn Conversions & Class Q permitted development planning
Barn Conversion and Class Q Permitted Development conversions can often be challenging to obtain planning permission for
Barn Conversions & Class Q permitted development planning
The planning system can become even more when trying to create a barn conversion project when the existing barn is not a traditional stone or brick building. It is imperative to review the specific planning policy of the relevant local planning authority carefully. To understand which buildings would normally be allowed and hence what supporting information needs to accompany a planning application. Conservation Officers may also be involved to review the specific details of the barn conversion; ensuring that the character of the building remains intact.
This section specifically deals with rural barn conversion projects. However, there are many buildings within villages and towns that may be suitable for conversion into homes or businesses. If you are looking to convert an existing building into a home or business please contact us to discuss further.
Permitted Development - Class Q
Planning Permission is not the only way of converting agricultural buildings into contemporary family homes.
It may be possible to convert an agricultural building into a dwelling house through permitted development legislation, (specifically Class Q of The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015) in England.
The legislation does allow for physical changes to the building, but not extensions, including the installation (or replacement) of windows, doors, roof or exterior walls and services. There are further limitations, requirements and stipulations including the size of the space to be converted, the level of building works required, the location and the lawful use of the building among others.
The process of obtaining “prior approval” is different to that of seeking planning permission and there are limited opportunities for the Local Planning Authority to prevent the change of use of the building from agricultural to a dwelling house.
CASE STUDIES
The following are a sample of interesting or challenging projects.
Disclaimer: This page provides an introduction only and is not a definitive statement of the law and should therefore not be relied upon. The information above relates to England only. Policies across the rest of the UK may differ. Contact your Local Planning Authority for advice and confirmation before any works are carried out. All images used are for illustrative purposes only. Read the full disclaimer here.
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