Planning rules change for ag buildings
Farmers will be able to better use the potential of many of their redundant agricultural buildings after a change in planning policy announcement yesterday (9 May).
From 30 May, agricultural buildings under 500sq m will be covered by permitted development rights allowing them to be converted to alternative uses without the need to apply for planning consent for the change of use.
“This gives a clear signal to owners, developers and local planning authorities that we want underused and outdated offices to be brought back to life, and provides an excellent opportunity to create much needed new homes,” said Eric Pickles, the government minister in charge of planning.
Promising further flexibility on the use of agricultural buildings, Mr Pickles added: “As set out in this year’s budget statement, we will consult later in the summer on further relaxations to enable empty shops and agricultural buildings to convert to housing.”
James Del Mar, head of Knight Frank’s Rural Consultancy department, welcomed the announcement.
He said: “It has been very frustrating for our clients that many buildings unsuitable for modern agriculture have lain redundant for years because planners haven’t allowed them to be converted into alternative uses.
“These changes to permitted development rights will not only allow farmers and estate owners to maximise the potential of their properties, but could also provide new employment opportunities in the countryside and help safeguard the fabric of historic buildings that could otherwise fall into disrepair.”
New permitted development rights will also allow change of use from B1 office space to houses (C3) to provide new homes in existing buildings.
The news was also welcomed by the CLA.
“Many CLA members are currently paying empty property rates because of a lack of business tenants, so allowing a change of use will reduce costs and provide much-needed homes in rural areas,” CLA President Harry Cotterell said.