In 2014, permitted development rights were extended to allow agricultural buildings (e.g. barns) to be converted into homes (Class Q). However, like many other permitted development rights, there are certain rules and regulations that you must adhere to before you get given the green light by the local planning authority.

If you are thinking of converting your barn, or considering purchasing a plot, then speak to us first. We are always happy to help and guide you in the right direction.

Prior Notification

Even though barn conversions are classed as permitted development, you will still need to give the local authority ‘prior notification’ to seek approval before you start work. You can read our dedication page for more information on prior notification, however in brief, it is like a fast-track planning application. The council has the right to refuse the proposals if certain criteria are not met and can impose conditions on the development.

There are some hard and fast rules when it comes to understanding if your barn conversion won’t meet the requirements of Class Q and will therefore need planning permission. These include:

• if it is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
• if it is a listed building
• if it isn’t on an agricultural unit (for example, if the barn is in a garden or paddock rather than on a farm).

Are your works for a conversion or re-build?

Class Q is a controversial piece of legislation and issues may occur if the local planning authority classify the development as a re-build – even if much of the existing building remains. If the local planning authority believe your project falls under a ‘re-build’, then they will request a full planning application.

Hestia Town Planning have worked on many cases where we have successfully argued that a project constitutes a conversion, thus avoiding the need to submit a full planning application.

Full Planning or Prior-Notification?

It is worth noting there there are both pros and cons to applying for full planning or going down the prior notification route. When you contact us, we will assess your site and pull together a strategy to advise you on the best route to take.