REFUSED plans to turn a farm barn in Silsden to a holiday let have been overturned by a Government planning inspector.

In July last year, Craven District Council refused permission for the conversion of the barn at Little Slack Farm, New Lane, for its use as a holiday let because of its isolated, unsustainable location and it being against the Craven Local Plan. An earlier application to convert the barn into a home was also refused, in March, 2022.

The most recent decision has now been over-ruled following a successful appeal by Simon Bennett to the Planning Inspectorate.

In their decision notice, the planning inspector says while the barn is in an isolated location, the proposal would see the re-use of a redundant building and the enhancement of the immediate surroundings.

The inspector has included a number of conditions to the scheme including that the barn following conversion be only used as a holiday let as as the 'location of services and facilities in relation to permanent residence would not be suitable.' A record of visitors and the duration of their stay will be required.

An existing right of way will also have to be protected, an acceptable drainage scheme submitted and bird boxes will have to be installed.