PD or not PD?

Spotted on my travels this week - what appears to be a conversion under the permitted development rights to allow agricultural buildings to be converted to dwellings.  One original building (a grain store), physically separated into 2, upper part removed, no original openings retained as was, no sign of any of the original material…
Is this a conversion?
Answers on a postcard...

West Dorset and Weymouth Plan - emerging options now available to view

One to keep an eye on – the preferred options draft of the West Dorset and Weymouth Local Plan is now going through committees prior to consultation in August – October.  Click here for a look at the proposed policy changes and site allocations. 

Key points to note include:

• 2.5% increase on proposed growth (up to 794 dwellings per annum) – but the actual supply could in theory deliver 955 dwellings per annum as it would include a ‘buffer’ of about 3,200 homes above what is needed;
• New site specific allocations at all of the towns, plus Crossways.  This includes a major development north of Dorchester, significant growth at Sherborne, and the release of further sites at Crossways.  No specific allocations proposed in the area's villages; 
• Proposed approach to setting minimum growth figures for Neighbourhood Plan areas;
• More permissive approach for residential conversions in the countryside, providing the building is not completely isolated (so at a minimum should forms of a hamlet or group of buildings);
• More relaxed approach proposed on the size of replacement dwellings in the countryside;
• Small sites (up to 5 dwellings) will not be expected to make any affordable housing contributions for the foreseeable future.

Get in touch with me if this may effect you and you need some professional planning advice…

Broadstone Neighbourhood Plan - 95% vote 'yes'

Broadstone Neighbourhood Plan Referendum results are now in – 31% turnout (with over 2,600 people voting) and a resounding ‘yes’ from 95% of the voters.  Congratulations to all involved!