Permission won on appeal for barn conversion in Cotswold District

8 December 2024

On behalf of a private client, the MEP team is proud to have secured planning permission on appeal for the conversion of a former agricultural building to a dwelling at Scrubditch Farm, North Cerney, near Cirencester.

Following the refusal of Cotswold District Council to grant the permission, the MEP team was tasked with obtaining the necessary approval.  Being located in the Cotswold National Landscape, and sensitive in terms of affecting heritage assets, the local authority was unsupportive of the proposal, refusing planning permission.

The MEP team, supported by Rappor Consultants Ltd and Blake Architects, led the project through the appeal process via an informal hearing, presenting a robust case which demonstrated that the scheme represented a sustainable form of development. Contrary to the LPA’s refusal reasons, the Inspector agreed with the appellants case, confirming that the proposal is a suitable location for residential development, would safeguard the distinctiveness of the landscape and the building and the building is capable of conversion without substantial alteration or rebuilding.

This successful outcome demonstrates the importance of having a clear understanding of the site and the relevant policy, and presenting a robust case at appeal.