Homes on farms change in planning

With 8,500 people on Shropshire Council’s housing waiting list, the answer could lie with our farmers, but only with the compliance of local planning authorities.

The Coalition Government’s Home on the Farm scheme aims to encourage farmers and councils to work together to encourage more families to move to the countryside. The Communities Minister, Andrew Stunell, has written to all local authorities asking them to amend their policies to allow farm buildings to be converted to affordable housing.

Balfours planning consultant, Karine Swanson acknowledges: “At present, farmers wanting to convert disused buildings to new homes are likely to struggle to get planning permission in the face of their council's development plans. And as more young people are unable to afford to live in rural areas, so village schools, shops and pubs struggle to survive.

“At Balfours we deal with all aspects of rural property and the ‘Home on the Farm Scheme’ could be a great opportunity for farmers to put their outbuildings to good use whilst underpinning the rural economy.

However Mrs Swanson adds a note of caution: “Barns are notoriously more expensive to convert than new build. Furthermore many are in isolated locations, which is not compatible with the needs of low income families who need amenities and services to be close by.

“Clearly there are some anomalies and we would need to see the Minister’s scheme in more detail. Nevertheless by providing affordable homes for those who work and live in the countryside, hopefully we can sustain rural communities for future generations”, adds Karine Swanson, Head of Planning at Balfours. To discuss with Karine, call 01743 241181.

Pictured: Karine Swanson says home farm scheme – planning a step in the right direction