Benefits of planning permission

Owners of redundant barns and farm buildings that have residential development potential are being advised to apply for planning permission.

Shaun Jones, of Halls’ professional department in Shrewsbury, says planning policies in areas such as north Shropshire, Oswestry and Telford and Wrekin support the conversion of barns and farm buildings to residential use provided certain criteria are met.

Fearing that obtaining planning permission for such conversions might become more difficult in the future, he is urging property owners to secure consent whilst it is available.

“Obtaining planning permission opens up options for the future,” he explained.

“An individual has up to five years to develop land or convert barns and farm buildings following the consent.”

Planners will often grant planning permission for a conversion to residential use only after it has been proved that there is no potential for commercial use of farm buildings.

“To support a planning application, we undertake a six-month marketing exercise on behalf of a client to establish if there is commercial demand for a property,” said Mr Jones.

“It is essential to fully determine the demand for commercial uses to put forward a robust case to planning departments.

“We have secured consents for several barn schemes in the past 12 months throughout Shropshire and adjoining counties.”

For advice about barn conversions and land development contact Mr Jones at Halls’ Welsh Bridge headquarters in Shrewsbury on 01743 284777.