Barn Conversion - Ford End, Chelmsford

Phase one of the project has created 5 new dwellings from previously agricultural buildings.  Statutory consent obtained under Part Q of GDPO (Permitted Development Rights.  RTA’s involvement was predominantly to undertake the technical design demonstrating compliance with the Building Regulations.  Detailed sections and design strategies were developed addressing the technical complexities of the building in a number of ways.  The focus was predominantly the retention and show casing of the beautiful historic timber frame. 

The project, undertaken on a working farm, was to assist the farmer in obtaining additional income streams making the most of the building stock they owned and taking advantage of the Permitted Development Rights currently available. 

Challenges were to meet the stringent Building Regulations on a historic building while meeting the commercial needs of the client, preserving the historic and beautiful fabric and dealing with the sensitive bat habitat. 

RCP contractors undertook the construction works to an outstanding level, a level that they are understandably very proud of as we are. 

The project success has led the client to consider further commercial opportunities within the working farm to build upon the success and business strategy to keep the farm sustainable and profitable.  Phase two will likely launch within 2025. 

The properties begun to be let out on shorthold tenancy agreements towards the end of 2024 and into 2025 prior to the project completion, testament to the quality and desirability of the conversion.