Relaxation of planning rules for barn conversions and agricultural buildings will allow for an effective use of buildings that have become redundant due to the changes in modern farming systems.

The new Government proposals, announced by Planning Minister Nick Boles, plan to relax permitted development rights in order to allow agricultural buildings and shops of up to 150sqm to be converted into residential properties, without the requirement of full planning permission.

The result of this announcement is that there is likely to be an increase in the sale of such properties as purchasers and developers realise the investment opportunities in refurbishing them.

For many years the conversion of former agricultural buildings has provided developers and owners with challenging but very rewarding projects and the end results can be quite magnificent, providing historic rural living.

In recent years Protectahome have experienced a growing demand for our services in this specialist sector and have had the privilege of working on some outstanding projects.

These services vary from structural repairs to waterproofing and damp proofing. Timber treatment may also be essential in the refurbishment of barns and a full survey is always recommended upon embarking on such a project.

Well versed in such works, Protectahome’s experienced surveyors take all aspects into account, including the history of the building and the end use, ensuring that a thorough, yet sympathetic service is delivered.

For more information on Protectahome’s experience of barn conversions, click here.