Don’t forget that Class Q planning has changed!
Starting from May 2025, we’ll see the end of the transition period between the old and new Permitted Development (PD) rights for barn conversions.
Old PD – convert a barn into a single large dwelling.
New PD – convert a barn into a few smaller dwellings (max 150m2 each).
Under the current regulations, property owners can convert agricultural buildings into a single large residential dwelling through PD rights. However, the new regulations will shift focus toward creating multiple smaller dwellings, with each unit capped at 150 square meters.
Limitations for Class Q
With a Class Q permission, you must complete building work within 3 years, Something that self-builders could find quite onerous! Standard planning permission requires you to have started building within 3 years, not completing.
But remember folks this doesn’t mean that larger barn conversions to dwellings are not allowed! It just means you’d need a full planning application, something we often recommend anyway.
However, it’s important to note a potential challenge: some local councils generally prefer the more traditional (brick, stone, black timber) barn conversions than the larger steel or concrete framed barn conversions.
Changes inline with general housing policy shift
This shift in policy could reflect broader housing strategies focusing on creating more, smaller residential units rather than single large homes. I can’t help wondering if this lovely grain store conversion into 5 homes, influenced policy makers thinking!
If you’re unsure about how these changes might affect your specific project or would like to discuss your options in more detail, we’re here to help. Planning regulations can be complex, and it’s always beneficial to get professional advice tailored to your particular circumstances.
