Moat Farm

Background

The client required alternative uses within a series of redundant farm buildings, considered to be curtilage listed. The proposal was for two dwellings and separate access from a working farmyard.

The challenge

The site was heavily constrained lying within Flood Zone 3, being curtilage listed with some original features, and within open countryside.

The solution

We made a clear and convincing case for a residential conversion based on evidence that no other use would be viable and that residential use was the only way to secure the retention of the buildings. The proposal included local flood prevention improvements and sensitive floor
raising within the barns, all based on evidence from the project team. A high-quality design from local architects minimised changes to the building. Access to the wider fields and the development was secured under permitted development rights, and constructed prior to
the development proposal being submitted for planning.

This allowed for environmental agency approval based on the agricultural need. Close engagement with the Local Planning Authority from concept, including the ecologist, conservation officer, highways department and planning officer, ensured that the outcome was
managed from an early stage.

The result

Support was gained from the Council’s listed building officer and planning officer and permission granted.

“We made a clear and convincing case for a residential conversion based on evidence that no other use would be viable.” – Moat Farm client