Initial thoughts
We first thought about converting the barn in Spring 2002, when it became clear that without some remedial work, the barn would deteriorate to a state beyond reasonable economic repair.
The barn had previously had detailed planning permission for conversion into 3 separate holiday units, but this had lapsed in early 1990.
Planning and architects
After an initial consultation with Peak District National Park Planning Department (PDNPPD), we established that they would not have any objections in principal to conversion into a single 3-bedroomed holiday unit.
We invited 3 different architects to visit the site and give their initial thoughts and following this we selected Adrian Russell & Associates based in Bakewell. We then steeled ourselves for a long planning battle and were very pleasantly surprised to find that the PDNPPD agreed to all of our proposals - thanks Adrian!
The builder
Anyone who lives in this area knows very well how difficult it can be to get a good, reliable builder. All the best local builders don't advertise and rely solely on word of mouth recommendations. What's more, if or when you do find a good firm, they tend to be booked up 18 months or so in advance. A chance conversation with a friend in the village led me to view the work of Peter Ferns (01538 308758) and his team who had been renovating various outbuildings at Middle Farm Bed and Breakfast in Bradnop (run by my friend's parents and definitely worth a stay!)
I was immediately struck by the quality of the work, in particular the attention to detail with the stonework. Pete agreed to come over and look at our barn and seemed very enthusiastic to carry out the work - the only downside, it would be a year to 18 months before he'd be able to start!
We agreed that Pete would price up the job and then set about raising the finance to pay for it.