Many applicants love the idea of an original stone barn for conversion into a residential dwelling, giving a potential of isolation and land holding. Whilst this may well be a dream, it is important that feet are kept firmly on the ground!
There are inherent problems with barn conversions which centre on achieving adequate daylight infusion, ceiling heights and floor levels.
Most local planning authorities seek to keep the barn that is to be converted in as near an agricultural portrayal as possible and are paranoid about new ‘openings’. Skilful negotiations are the key. Extensions or alterations will seldom be permitted unless on a very minor scale and with sound justification. The key is expert negotiation.