Any planning experts? Adding windows and bi-fold to an already converted barn

[Kitsmummy]

Would really appreciate some specialist knowledge as I can't find the answers online.

My brother is buying a barn conversion (done around 20 years ago) but would like to add a set of bi-folds at the back (looking onto fields) and to also add some velux windows and a small bathroom window. None of these windows will overlook a neighbouring property.

It's not listed and not in a conservation area.

I can see online that if this was a regular house we wouldn't need planning permission but I'm not sure if the fact it's a previous agricultural barn will mean there are anymore restrictions?

Would really appreciate any info!

Anyone??

Look up the local council's Planning dept and read the Building Control guidelines. If in doubt, contact the Planning dept and ask.

Building control and planning are completely different rules.

The best thing to do is look at the original planning permission for the conversion. There should be a copy on the council web site. Look under planning register, ot comment on planning applications type pages. You can't comment, but if you put in the address the planning history should be available.

The original PP will have conditions set out, some of which may have removed permitted development rights for things like extensions, outbuildings, windows etc. If this is the case PP would be required.

The best way to check would be to apply for a Certificate of Lawfulness for a proposed development. This would confirm if pp is not required.

My local authority's Planning dept covers building controls too.

Yes - most do. But the Building Control guidelines won't tell you whether you need planning permission. Building Control will deal with the Building Regulations which basically make sure buildings and any alterations are safe.

Amazing, thanks very much

Not sure why you needed to pick apart my posts @Seeline . I pointed OP to a department that covered Planning AND Building Control. I am aware that they perform different functions.

Not picking them apart @KirstenBlest ! You advised the OP to look at the Building Control guidelines. I simply pointed out that these were not the correct guidelines to be looking at to see if something required planning permission.

That's not how you came across. I posted something to bump a thread that wasn't getting a reply and to offer what little help I could.

Anyway, OP has some info to get going with now, so best wishes to you and Op's brother.

Thank you both, it's much appreciated.

I've found the planning application! When it was granted there was a condition that "the prior permission of the local planning authority shall be sought for any addition or extensions to the dwellings by the submission of a planning application.

Reason: the local planning authority is not satisfied that the dwellings could be extended without detriment to the character of the building".

I'm hoping that "addition" is just another word for extension...Eg it doesn't mean windows/doors??

I appreciate that I'll need a certificate of lawfulness as mentioned earlier but if you have any knowledge/thoughts on "addition" meaning it would be good to know

Are the bifold doors a replacement for a patio window/door, or is the wall being cut into to create a new size hole?

'Addition or extension' is strange wording. I've seen 'alteration or extension'. Off the top of my head I'm struggling to see the difference between addition and extension. But logically, both would be enlarging the structure, whereas new windows and doors would not be, so I wouldn't think they would be covered by that condition.
I suppose if the roof lights are allowing the enlargement of living accommodation into the roof space, they may be covered though.
Sorry - not being very clear! I think to be certain you are going to have to go down the Certificate route.

And thanks again both!

To answer ref bi-folds...no existing doors, it would be cutting a hole into a wall.

And yes we'll have to do the certificate I guess but it's promising that you interpreted "addition" the same way as I did

Are you in Scotland, @Kitsmummy ? Might the rules be different in your area?
It might be an idea to get a quote for the proposed work or a structural engineer's opinion.
There are threads on bifold doors that might be of interest.

Somerset! X

Thanks. Lovely. I have a soft spot for Somerset. Don't know it well.