Generally, buildings for agricultural use will require planning permission if you wish to change their purpose from agricultural to residential.
However, changes made in recent years have allowed more flexibility when it comes to transforming an agricultural building, so that it is suitable for residential purposes.
Agricultural to Residential Change of Use
These new abilities allow a change of use, as well as certain physical improvements that must be made to the property.
The changes apply only to agricultural buildings and are subject to a 'prior approval' process from the local authorities before they can proceed, during which the local authority will carefully consider the impact of the proposed change.They may impose reasonable conditions on the changes you are able to make.
Limitations on Agricultural to Residential Change of Use
The limitations on agricultural to residential changes of use are complicated, and include:
- The agricultural building to be converted must not exceed size limits,or a set number of dwellings.
- Development must not extend beyond the existing building.
- You can install and replace essential bits and pieces, including walls, windows, utilities, doors and roofs. You may also partially demolish, but only if these steps are reasonably necessary for the building to work as a dwelling house.
- You cannot change the use of an agricultural building if the site is currently occupied under an agricultural tenancy, unless you get permission from all parties involved (that is to say, both the landlord and tenant).
- The building must have been used solely for agricultural purposes on 20th March 2013, or when it was last used before that specific date. You may not be able to change the use of the building if certain changes have been made.
- You will not be able to change the use of the building without planning permission if the building is Listed or in an otherwise protected area (such as a World Heritage Site or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).
- If you take advantage of the rules to change use, you will not be allowed to construct agricultural storage buildings as permitted developments for ten years.
Have any Questions?
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