01242 801748
Permitted Development provisions under Part 3, Class Q of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 have given rise to the opportunity of meeting housing demand in rural areas. So what qualifies as meeting the provisions of class Q?
Buildings must have been in use for agriculture on 20 March 2013, or alternatively, last used for agriculture before that date if unused on 20th March 2013.
Class Q has caused much debate between Local authorities regarding the perception of works deemed ‘reasonably necessary’. It is important that any design with modern agricultural buildings follows the idea of a conversion and that if any additional work is being done, it is carefully considered in an effort not to affect the capacity of the existing structure.
When looking to convert a modern agricultural building there are several design features which must be considered; how to insulate and make the building watertight, examination of the existing foundations, whether a new insulated ground floor slab and new first floor is required and finally if the existing framework is capable of the additional loading required in the design.
When considering the design, the delivery of services such as providing sustainable drainage systems on isolated sites where typically main sewers aren’t available is paramount. In addition, other concerns involve; what materials need to be used both externally and internally? How much of the agricultural history of the building needs to be maintained or exposed? And the most important question of all, how best is it to divide an open vast space internally to form a space that provides both comfort and privacy.
The latest conversions of modern agricultural buildings under permitted development have opened the gates to a new fashion of stylish rural architectural designs which utilise sustainable materials and modern technologies adding value to the surrounding landscape both visually and economically. Contrasting to the typical more traditional barn conversions which have become common place in rural areas which typically use natural stone walls and slate and tile roofs.
There are many developments currently being undertaken in this area and many opportunities to get involved so if you’re looking to do something different then grasp the opportunity for conversion as now is the time to act.
For more information, contact us on 01242 801748.
