Rural diversification

EC6: Rural diversification 1. The re-use and adaptation of an existing buildings, and new buildings where re-use is not possible, that is of permanent and substantial construction will be permitted if all the following assessment criteria are met: a) The proposed new development or re-use is of a scale that would not have an adverse impact on its surroundings. b) The redundant or disused status of the building has been demonstrated, and the reuse of the building would enhance the immediate setting. c) Structural survey information must be provided to ensure that the buildings are suitable for conversion. Conversion works should not involve major reconstruction or significant extensions and should respect the character of the building and its setting. If major works are required, it must be demonstrated that dereliction was the result of severe accidental damage or accidental destruction; and d) Where the building proposed to be converted is suitable for modern agricultural practice, its loss would not give rise to a future need for a replacement similar building within the same land holding. 2. Conversion of existing rural buildings to new uses in the National Landscape is supported where it complies with the requirements above plus the following: a) The building is not a building that was erected within the preceding 10 years; and b) The proposed use will support the vitality and sustainability of the local rural community, the rural economy, or local services. 7.107 This policy sets out the approach of Buckinghamshire Council for development proposals to support the rural economy. It covers change of use and diversification of rural and farm buildings to other employment uses. This allows for rural and farming business to diversify to enable business growth but also protects these practices. Employment uses are defined as offices, industrial and warehousing under use Classes E (g), B2 and B8 of the Town and Country Planning, Use Classes Order 1987 as amended by subsequent legislation. Sui generis uses which are like these use classes will also be assessed under these policies. 7.108 National Planning Policy Framework 2024, paragraphs 88 and 89, support the need for economic growth in rural areas to create jobs and prosperity. 7.109 The re-use and adaptation of existing rural buildings located in the countryside is important to meet employment needs in rural areas and provides the opportunity to maintain a viable business. It encourages the creation of new sustainable rural enterprises and often provides premises for start-ups and small and medium enterprises. The demand for new building in the countryside can be reduced by reusing rural buildings, avoiding leaving an existing building empty or underused. Buckinghamshire Council will seek to prioritise the re-use or conversion of existing buildings over the development of new buildings. 7.110 Diversification in the Chilterns National Landscape will need to have regard to the Social and Economic Wellbeing objectives of the Chilterns Management Plan, which seeks to continue a functional working landscape with a viable rural economy. The Management Plan intends to address skill shortages in key occupations required to maintain the National Landscape.