Class Q Barns Conversions
This legislation was a bit of a rural windfall in 2013, allowing the conversion of certain types of rural barn to housing. The rules of this game changed in 2016 as a result of a landmark court case.
The statute has been tweaked recently, and as many as five homes can be considered. The projects comprise occasional 'one-off' large homes in stunning locations together with more compact dwellings for a different rural market.
The progression of these schemes requires great care as an inability to comply with the statutory requirements can lead to failure. The correct preparation of a submission is therefore vital, and buildings with permission are highly sought after.
Very often, the donor building can appear very unassuming, and the right professional advice is essential to assess what may be possible in a given situation realistically. Nevertheless, wonderful homes can be created using these important rural assets.
It is often surprising what kind of home can be created from such humble beginnings.
Lastly, another recent law case can allow a Q permitted barn to be replaced with an appropriate home. This is the latest opportunity within the rural development framework.
