In June, Boris Johnson announced new planning reforms which could make it easier to convert disused farm buildings into residential homes. The reforms are a major victory for rural groups and campaigners, and follow a period of intense lobbying of both ministers and parliamentarians. Defra minister George Eustice said that for too long it had been difficult for farmers and landowners to gain planning permission when trying to diversify.
Mr Johnson said that the reforms will “sensitively make use of existing planning rights, for example by making it easier to turn disused agricultural buildings into homes for local first-time buyers, and to support farmers in growing and diversifying their businesses.”
No further details have been announced as yet, but the new measures are expected to be extended to designated landscapes, including National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs).
