Extended permitted development rights have now come into effect, allowing farmers to convert their unused buildings into homes and shops
The government hopes that the extension of the scope of permitted development rights will “turbocharge rural housing development”.
Farmers will be able to repurpose their unused agricultural buildings and land without the need to submit a planning application.
The developments will still be subject to space and natural light conditions to ensure the homes are suitable.
Over the last decade, over 5,000 homes have been built on unused farmlands under permitted development rights
The extended permitted development rights will double the floorspace that can be converted from agricultural purposes to “flexible commerical use”, going from 500 square metres to 1000 square metres.
The number of houses that be created from converting unused farm buildings will also be doubled, going from five to ten.
The maximum size permitted for new buildings or extensions on farms over five hectares has increased by half to 1,500 square metres and by a quarter on smaller farms to 1,250 square metres.
Freedom for farmers seeking to expand their businesses
As well as housing, the government have encouraged farmers to explore “new lucrative business opportunities” such as outdoor sports facilities, larger farm shops and agricultural training centres.
Minister for housing, planning and building safety, Lee Rowley, said: “Farmers are the lifeblood of communities, and these changes give them the freedom to grow their businesses, and plan for their futures.”
Rowley added: “This is all part of our long-term plan for housing to deliver more homes for rural communities and reform the planning system, removing unnecessary barriers to development.”
Farming minister, Mark Spencer, said: “I am extremely pleased to support our farmers and provide them the freedom to decide the best uses for buildings on their land, without needless bureaucracy holding them back.”
