The Period Barn, Tonbridge Road, Barming, Maidstone

Project Type: Class Q Prior Approval – Agricultural to Residential Conversion
Local Authority: Maidstone Borough Council
Status: Approved – October 2025

Urban & Rural Ltd working with FORTIS-PLANNING successfully secured Prior Approval under Class Q of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 (as amended) for the conversion of an existing agricultural barn into a single residential dwelling (Use Class C3) at The Period Barn, Tonbridge Road, Barming, Maidstone.

The project involved the sensitive conversion of a historic brick-built barn which once formed part of an oast complex associated with the adjacent Grade II listed Old Hall. Working closely with the planning consultant and structural engineer, we prepared a high-quality set of architectural drawings demonstrating a well-considered residential layout that respects the building’s character and heritage context.

A structural appraisal confirmed that the barn is capable of conversion with only minor strengthening and stability works required, ensuring compliance with Class Q limitations. The design retains the original brick walls and traditional roof form, while introducing new glazing and sympathetic alterations to bring natural light into the home and create a comfortable modern living environment.

Key planning considerations included:

• Compliance with Class Q criteria for building conversion;
• Retention of the building’s historic form and materials;
• Protection of the neighbouring Grade II listed Old Hall and surrounding residential amenity;
• Adequate provision for access, parking, and natural light; and
• Management of ecological considerations, including mitigation measures for bats and badgers.

Following assessment by Maidstone Borough Council, Prior Approval was granted in October 2025, recognising the proposal as a legitimate conversion under Class Q and in full compliance with national and local planning policy.

This approval represents a successful example of the sustainable re-use of redundant agricultural buildings, combining heritage sensitivity with high-quality design to deliver a distinctive new rural dwelling.