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BARN CONVERSIONS

At Astrum we hold a wealth of experience in understanding all the planning conditions and constraints involved in the construction of barn conversions.

We offer end-to-end support for your barn conversion project – from initial feasibility assessments and planning applications, right through to bespoke design, lighting controls, and full smart home integration.

 

One of the key advantages of converting a barn is the potential to utilise Class Q permitted development rights, which allow certain agricultural buildings in England to be converted into residential dwellings without the need for a full planning application. Class Q, introduced under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 and updated in recent years, provides a more streamlined route to approval, provided the building meets criteria related to structure, location, and previous use. These rights have opened up significant opportunities for rural development, especially for landowners and developers seeking to repurpose existing structures.

 

In addition, barn conversions, like new builds, are often eligible for VAT relief. Under HMRC Notice 431C, VAT may be reclaimable on qualifying works, offering further financial benefits. This, combined with the often complex and restrictive planning process for constructing new homes in the countryside, makes barn conversions a more accessible and cost-effective alternative.

 

A barn conversion allows you to retain and celebrate the unique architectural features of traditional agricultural buildings—such as exposed beams, high vaulted ceilings, and open-plan layouts—while creating a modern, energy-efficient home. For those needing more space, barn loft conversions are an excellent way to increase usable living area, often with striking sloping ceilings and large volumes of natural character.

 

That said, original barns often lack adequate natural light. We address this by incorporating glass panels, ridge glazing, and discreet modern openings to introduce light and create an enhanced sense of space – without undermining the barn’s heritage.

 

Environmental responsibility is central to our approach. Wherever feasible, we recommend salvaging and reusing existing materials, reducing waste, and lowering the carbon footprint of your build. When approached thoughtfully, barn conversions can be among the most sustainable and visually striking forms of rural development available today.

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We've been converting barns in the UK for over 20 years. Read about some of our latest projects. With all those years of experience, we've got some very useful tips and tricks. Contact us to find out how to get started or read our ultimate guide to barn conversions.​

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ECOLOGICAL AND
SUBSTAINABLE

HIGHLY DURABLE

UNIQUE STRUCTURES AND DESIGN

LOW MAINTENANCE

ABILITY TO REUSE
MATERIALS

VERSATILE

CLASS Q CRITERIA

Agricultural use history
The building must have been part of an established agricultural unit and in agricultural use on or before 20 March 2013 (or for at least 10 years prior to conversion).

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Structural integrity
The existing barn must be structurally capable of conversion without major rebuilding – allowing for repairs, replacement of parts, and installation of windows, doors, or insulation.

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Design limitations
Only internal works and reasonable external changes are permitted — including the addition of windows, doors, roofing, and services to enable residential use. Full demolition and rebuild are not allowed.

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Size restrictions
A maximum of five dwellings can be created from a single agricultural unit, with a combined floor space not exceeding 865 square metres.

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Location constraints
Buildings located in conservation areas, National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), or Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) may not qualify.

We’d love to discuss your project! Contact us today for a no-obligation chat.

ASTRUM BARN CONVERSIONS

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