By Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter
A barn near Northwood could be turned into a four-bedroomed house.
A planning application has been made to County Hall for prior approval to convert an agricultural building, on Lower Luton Farm, into living accommodation.
A planning statement prepared by rural property specialists, BCM Wilson Hill, claims the change of use is permitted development under legislation dating from 2014. It says: “The proposal is for a small and single residential unit.
“The design will retain the appearance of the barn and building, will utilise the existing openings, which will ensure it remains in keeping with its surroundings and the rural character of the setting.
“To ensure adequate natural light and to provide good habitable conditions the dwelling will be served by a small number of new openings to all habitable rooms.
“The proposal will be of considerable benefit to Lower Luton Farm because it will enable the succession of the farm to regenerate a productive livelihood and importantly enable the farm to have a new active workforce on-site 24/7 to assist with the care and welfare of its animals.”
The 176.5 square yard (147.6 m2) proposed house would include a lounge, hall, en-suite bathroom, shared bathroom and dining area.
Island Roads have made no objections; however, a member of the public has lodged an objection. The neighbour claims that there is no justifiable reason why the conversion should be approved. The objector claims that “farming activity is just a facade to allow residential dwelling on the site”, adding “The total curtilage of the property, at 19 hectares, does not lend itself to this farm being a viable working farm. A handful of cows are kept on the land and this is the extent of the agricultural activity.”
Comments are open until December 13 under reference 24/01735/3QPA on the council’s planning website.
Isle of Wight Observer