We’re pleased to share a rural planning success near Goosnargh, where Class Q prior approval has been granted for two linked barn conversion proposals, Barn A and Barn B, creating three new homes through the conversion of existing agricultural buildings.
Class Q projects can look simple from the outside, but they rarely succeed by accident. The route is permitted development, but it still relies on getting the key prior approval points right, and presenting a clear, well evidenced case that decision makers can support with confidence.
The opportunity
This was a conversion led approach, bringing existing rural buildings back into long term use rather than pursuing new build development in the countryside. It is often the most proportionate way to unlock additional housing in rural locations, while keeping the focus on reuse and making the most of what is already there.
What made the difference
On Class Q schemes, local authorities do not assess the proposal like a normal planning application, but they do need to be satisfied on a defined set of issues. In practice, success comes down to anticipating the questions that can stall or derail an approval, then dealing with them early and clearly.
For a project like this, the key is demonstrating that the access arrangements work safely in practice, with sensible parking and turning, the proposal is practical and deliverable on site, without relying on new build expansion, and the design stays within the scope of a genuine conversion, with changes limited to what is reasonably necessary for residential use.
How Planning and Design Practice helped
Our role was to guide both submissions so the strategy was clear across Barn A and Barn B, and the supporting information was focused on what matters for a Class Q decision. We kept the planning case calm and structured, coordinated the technical pieces that help give the authority confidence, and ensured the proposals remained conversion led and within the permitted development framework.
This is where experienced planning support adds real value. It is not about making the process more complicated, it is about reducing uncertainty, dealing with the likely sticking points early, and making the route from approval to delivery as straightforward as possible.
The outcome
Prior approval has now been granted for both barns, providing a clear route to deliver three homes through the reuse of existing agricultural buildings. As with most approvals, there are standard conditions to work through as the project progresses, and understanding these early helps keep the programme on track.
How Planning and Design Practice can help
Planning and Design Practice is a multi disciplinary team of Chartered Town Planners, Architects, Architectural Assistants and Heritage Specialists. Securing consent is often the key step in unlocking a project, and on rural sites it helps to have clear advice early so you can choose the right route, prepare the right evidence, and keep delivery practical.
For a free, no obligation consultation, get in touch on 01332 347371 or enquiries@planningdesign.co.uk.