Converting farm buildings

Farming building needs have changed over the last decades, and often the smaller scale buildings on a farm property are no longer suitable for agricultural purposes. These smaller buildings can be repurposed and developed profitably as attractive dwellings, either for extended family use or for sale.

The good news is that rules and regulations have relaxed in recent years, making it easier to repurpose farm buildings. For more on this read our blog on changes in Class Q permitted development.

Additional issues in planning consent may also arise if your property falls within – or even adjacent to – a conservation area such as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With around 7000 such designated areas in England alone this is a common stumbling block for rural landowners. At Nick Matthews we have extensive experience of planning and project managing farm building conversions and can guide you through the consent process. For more information and an informal chat please contact us.