Following reports in Planning (30 January 2015) that half the applications made for change-of-use from agricultural to residential are turned down, and that 90 of appellants have lost at appeal, we had good reason to feel satisfied in securing approval for a new dwelling in Bedfordshire. Approved last week, the scheme includes a 3-bedroom house; kitchen; study; dining area; living area, and bathroom space.

In preparing the prior approval application Iceni Projects undertook a full review of recent appeal decisions, which have, in the main, been turned down for either being in unsustainable locations; not being in agricultural use, or that works exceed that allowed by the legislation. This culminated in the preparation of a Supporting Statement, which was submitted alongside the prior approval application that addressed these issues separately.

Mindful of the nature of the existing barn, Iceni Projects and the project architects (Craig Moffat Architects) worked closely with structural engineers to demonstrate that the building could indeed be converted, and did not require wholesale demolition and rebuilding. This information and approach to the application proved valuable in overcoming some of the initial questions raised by the case officer.

To discuss changes in the agricultural to residential legalisation and understand how Iceni Projects may be able to assist then please contact James Bompas, or your usual contact at Iceni Projects.