Extension and works to a converted Oast House

Lambert & Foster had the privilege of marketing and selling an extraordinarily unique Grade II Tudor Hall House, packed with period details in a picturesque village set within the High Weald National Landscape.  It was the first time in 63 years that the property had been offered for sale.

The property included the main residential house with its original features, together with a vacant shop unit comprising a commercial shop at ground floor level.

Lambert & Foster staff, lead by the residential sales team in Paddock Wood, were able to utilise their expert knowledge to navigate and find a buyer for what is a unique and special property.

On completion of the sale, the new owners turned to and instructed Bloomfields to investigate the potential of incorporating the shop area back into and forming part of the main residential dwelling.

On appraisal of the relevant policies, it was clear that it would be necessary to demonstrate as part of any application to the local planning authority that the commercial shop use within the property was no longer viable, and that the change of use to residential was the only viable option for the property.  To demonstrate this, a Viability Appraisal Report was required and Bloomfields again turned to Lambert & Foster and their RICS Registered valuation surveyors to produce this report.

Bloomfields were able to demonstrate that the retail use was no longer viable and that the change of use to residential should not be resisted.  Furthermore, that the retail shop did not play such an important role in sustaining the village community that its loss would cause harm to that aim.  Moreover, that a residential use would be the most viable use to safeguard and for the long-term maintenance of the heritage asset.

The permission will now allow the applicant to occupy the property in its entirety as a residential property.