Barn conversion levy plan dropped
Tuesday 27th July 2010, 2:30PM BST.
A proposed new tax which could have made rural barn conversions unsustainable in Shropshire is to be dropped.
Shropshire Council’s proposed levy would have added a 15 per cent surcharge to the cost of barn conversions over and above the basic contribution towards affordable housing currently running at 20 per cent.
Welcoming the move, Balfours planning consultant, Karine Swanson, says: “This would have meant that farmers and developers of rural barns would have faced a tax bill of 35 per cent of the cost of the work, making such development unaffordable for many people.”
Act fast
She added that while the reduction is welcome news, from 2011 residential developments still face the prospect of a new infrastructure levy, so potential developers need to act fast if this is to be avoided.
“I would seriously urge those proposing to develop residential property in the foreseeable future to secure planning before the 2011 deadline, to avoid the levy.”
The process these days is not simple, I would advise seeking professional assistance.”
There are a number of hoops – including ecology surveys – normally required, which means acting now to ensure the deadline is met,” she adds.
For more information call Karine Swanson of Balfours on 01743 241181.
- Check out our cool conversions picture gallery in homes of the week
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