Options to accommodate the next generation

This seems a common situation faced by farming families and one that we come across a lot, but the one emotion that often comes across is one of frustration. Frustration because parents can’t seem to find a suitable way to provide accommodation for their children.

But, if this is something you are currently dealing with, have faith. It may be a question of principle or have financial implications, but this type of situation can usually be worked through.

Here are a few options that could be seriously considered, and some of which may not cost the earth:

1. Diversifying farming enterprises. In the light of the drive and enthusiasm that your youngsters are likely to have, hence their desire to remain living on the farm, you could consider developing a diversified enterprise and through this achieve planning for a new dwelling. This could be temporary or permanent, or merely a seasonal workers' dwelling if this were demanded by the new enterprise, but this would provide the option to develop the much needed accommodation.

2. Local needs dwelling. There may be land adjacent to other villages or hamlets which might be suitable for a local needs dwelling, but within easy reach of the main farm.

3. Conversion under Class Q. If there are buildings on the farm, modern or traditional, and these were in agricultural use as of March 2013, you may be able to convert these into accommodation under Class Q permitted development rights. Perhaps you currently have barns that are under-utilised which you could consider converting for residential use?

4. Live work unit. For those that perhaps have a child that runs a separate business ‘off farm’ but still wants to remain living on or near the farm, you could consider establishing ‘live-work’ unit (residential accommodation with workshop/studio), which could allow them to work from home.

5. Annexe: There may be the opportunity for a sympathetic extension of the main house to create an annexe, or the siting of a log cabin within the curtilage of the existing farmhouse to allow extra accommodation.

Although in the first instance it may seem you have a mountain to climb, when you think about it there are plenty of options to consider.

However, one piece of advice would be to engage the help of a professional at the start of your journey. They are likely to have dealt with similar situations before and will be able to advise you on what is best for you now and for the many years to come.

Angela Cantrill, rural chartered surveyor & planning consultant, Moule & Co.