There was good news for farmers earlier this year when permitted development rules were relaxed, making it easier to convert unused agricultural buildings into commercial and residential ventures without all the fuss, time and expense of having to seek planning permission.
Diversification is becoming an increasingly popular way for cash poor but land rich farmers to generate much-needed extra cashflow. But what are the legal considerations involved in such schemes? Andrew Little, Associate Director and agricultural specialist at Ware & Kay incorporating Pearsons & Ward Solicitors in Malton, York, & Wetherby reports.
There are many ways farmers can convert their unused buildings into money-spinners, but common ones include:
tourism: holiday lets, B&Bs, camping/ glamping;
business lets: office lets, storage units, car parking;
retail: farm shops, farmers’ markets;
food and drink: cider brewing, butchery, ice…