Policy information sourced from Welwyn Hatfield District Plan

RA17 Re-Use of Rural Buildings

The change of use or adaptation of rural buildings will be permitted provided that:

  • The proposed use and any proposed extensions or alterations is are in accordance with Green Belt policies;
  • The intensity of use of the site does not substantially increase;
  • Any increase in traffic generated from the site is acceptable in environmental and highway terms;
  • There would be no adverse effects on protected species, identified in Policy R16 or other species, identified in the local Biodiversity Action Plan, which use such buildings;
  • The new activity is in sympathy with its surroundings and there is no adverse effect on the amenity of nearby residential properties and other uses;
  • The existing structure is of a permanent nature and is not in such poor repair that it could only be brought back into use by complete or substantial reconstruction;
  • Any proposed alterations would be in accordance with the design policies in the plan and the Supplementary Design Guidance; and
  • In cases of agricultural buildings erected recently as a result of permitted development rights, clear evidence must be given to establish why the building is no longer suitable for agricultural use.

Residential re-use will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated by the applicant that business re-use would be inappropriate and unviable. In addition, consideration will be given to the contribution made by the existing use to the rural economy and whether its loss would prejudice village vitality.

For more information please see the Welwyn Hatfield District Plan