Our client farms in the Brecon Beacons.  The large farm is a family business and together they own a complex of buildings including farmhouse and several barns, all listed. 

Usable living space was tight for three generations and they decided that the time had come to convert one of the barns.

Our client approached us for a design for conversion of one of the barns for use as a holiday let. More and more farmers are supplementing income this way, which makes good use of redundant buildings, often in attractive rural surroundings. However planning permission is not easily obtained and good knowledge of the costs involved is essential. Under current planning legislation, as a general rule, in addition to the usual drawings and design statement, a bat survey and structural survey are needed. Also, if the barn is to be used as a permanent house, the barn must be marketed by an estate agent for 6 months as available for a commercial, sporting or tourism use.