Barn Conversions
In our business, there are few more satisfying projects than bringing back to life beautiful buildings that deserve to be loved and appreciated once more.
Barns are used for all manner of farming-related things – from storing products like hay and grain, to sheltering livestock, such as cattle, horses, and sheep – and most eventually fall into disrepair when they are no longer needed for such tasks.
However, just because they have come to the end of their agricultural life, it doesn’t mean they can’t continue to be used for a different purpose.
That’s why you’ll see so many barns being converted for residential and commercial use.
Here at PLC, we have plenty of experience in this area, having completed several barn conversions throughout the South West.
Our friendly team fully appreciate and sympathise with the balance between updating the property with the introduction of modern construction methods and retaining the aged beauty and character of such buildings.
We specialise in the installation of materials and designs required for such developments, from a waterproof tanking system to the introduction of new insulations, as well as character features including vaulted ceilings and green oak lintels and beams.
Do I need planning permission for a barn conversion?
To carry out a barn conversion you will require Class Q Permitted Development, which will allow you to convert both old and new barns without having to request full planning permission.
To fall under Class Q status, you must meet the following criteria:
- The building was in agricultural use on or before March 20, 2013
- The building is not Listed.
- The building is not in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), a National Park or a conservation area.
Although the introduction of Class Q has made it easier for those wanting to carry out barn conversions, many buildings are, by nature, Listed and, as such, will still require full planning. The full planning criteria will vary for Listed and unlisted barn.