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% surcharge to the cost of barn conversions over and above the basic contribution towards affordable housing currently running at 20%. 

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% of the cost of the work making such development unaffordable for many people."

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.