For businesses

Permitted Development Rights for the Change of Use of Agricultural Buildings

This year ICE Arch Ltd has been successful in gaining – Prior Approval for the Proposed Change of Use of an agricultural building into two dwellings.  The client is thrilled that they are able to make better use of a redundant building.

The changes to planning came into force on 6^th April 2014 making it easier, in planning terms, to convert redundant agricultural buildings into residential dwellings.  The then planning minister, Nick Boles, said this would make, ‘better use of redundant or under-used agricultural buildings’ without taking up countryside.

This was certainly beneficial to our client.

What new uses can an agricultural building change to?

There are 3 main uses to which an agricultural building can change under permitted development rights. They are to:

• flexible use (shops; financial and professional services; restaurants and cafes; business; storage or distribution; hotels; assembly and leisure)
• educational use (state-funded school; registered nursery)
• residential use (up to 3 dwellings)

There are size thresholds, limitations and conditions associated with the rights.  Should you have a project in mind or require advice on how to convert an agricultural building we would be happy to help.