Planning permission for a barn conversion in the Green Belt

We recently secured planning permission for a barn conversion near Halstead, Kent.

The applicants approached us when they wanted to convert the barn next door to their bungalow, which has been used by them as a store for their flower business.

We were able to demonstrate that planning policy was in favour of this development. Planning policies supports developments that reuse redundant or disused buildings and enhance its immediate setting.

The site was in the green belt, which brings challenges. We had to show that the proposed new use along with any associated use of land surrounding the building will not have a materially greater impact than the present use on the openness of the Green Belt, or harm the existing character of the area.