Since 21 May 2024, new Permitted Development Rights have been introduced to give farmers greater opportunities of diversification, at a time when farming is becoming increasingly more challenging, and there are severe shortages of new rural housing.
The new rules are intended to allow a greater number of existing agricultural buildings to be converted into larger farm shops, training centres, outdoor sports facilities, and even up to 10 new homes, without having to seek and obtain full planning permission. The new rules also allow extensions and other building works necessary to convert such buildings into the intended use, again without the need for full planning permission.
Certain limitations, such as when the building to be converted was last in agricultural use, will still apply, and conditions will likely need to be satisfied by seeking prior approval from the Council before starting work. These conditions relate to matters including (but not limited to) transport and highways, noise, and flood risk.
At DLBP, we are extremely knowledgeable about the latest changes to permitted development rights, and how to apply these so to make the most out of every site.
Should you know of any sites potentially suitable for conversion, please do get in touch with our Associate Director, Amy Paterson, at amypaterson@dlbp.uk or 07557 262724 to discuss these opportunities further.