Policy information sourced from the Maidstone Borough Council Local Plan 2021-2038

LPRQD5: Conversion of Rural Buildings.

1. The conversion of rural buildings will be permitted where the following criteria are met:

  • i. The building is of a form, bulk, scale and design which takes account of and reinforces landscape character;
  • ii. The building is of demonstrable permanent, substantial and sound construction and is capable of conversion without major or complete reconstruction;
  • iii. Any alterations proposed as part of the conversion compliments the landscape and building character in terms of materials used, design and form;
  • iv. There is sufficient room in the curtilage of the building to park the vehicles of those who will live there without detriment to the visual amenity of the countryside;
  • v. No fences, walls or other structures associated with the use of the building or the definition of its curtilage or any sub-division of it are erected which would harm landscape character and visual amenity; and
  • vi. In addition, and where relevant, account should be taken of the Kent Farmsteads Guidance and the Kent Downs AONB Farmstead Guidance.

Conversion for non-residential purposes

2. In addition to criteria 1(i – vi) above, proposals for the conversion of existing rural buildings for commercial, industrial, sport, recreation or tourism uses must also ensure that:

  • i. The traffic generated by the new use would not result in the erosion of roadside verges, and is not detrimental to the character of the landscape; and
  • ii. In the case of a tourist use, the amenity of future users would not be harmed by the proximity of farm uses or buildings. For self- catering accommodation proposals, a holiday occupancy condition will be attached, preventing their use as a sole or main residence.

Conversion for residential purposes

3. In addition to criteria 1(i – vi) above, proposals for the conversion of existing rural buildings specifically for residential purposes will be permitted where the following criteria are met:

  • i. In the interest of supporting a prosperous rural economy, every reasonable attempt has been made to secure a suitable commercial re-use for the building;
  • ii. Residential conversion is the optimal viable use of: a heritage asset; a listed building; an unlisted building of quality and traditional construction which is grouped with one or more listed buildings in such a way as to contribute towards the setting of the listed building(s); or other buildings which contribute to landscape character or which exemplify the historical development of the Kentish landscape; and
  • iii. There is sufficient land around the building to provide a reasonable level of outdoor space for the occupants, and the building and outdoor space enhance the immediate setting.

For more information, please visit Maidstone’s Local Plan Maidstone Borough Council Local Plan 2021-2038