Planning Permission Secured for Storage Building in Rural Maldon
Planning permission secured for the change of use of a rural stable to commercial storage in Goldhanger, overcoming planning, flood risk and ecology issues.
PLANNING APPROVALSMALDONESSEX
Andrew Ransome
8/2/20262 min read
In 2025, I secured planning permission from Maldon District Council for the change of use of an existing stable building to a commercial storage facility (Class B8), near Goldhanger, Essex.
The proposal enables the continued use of an existing rural building to support the applicant's established property and construction business, providing secure indoor storage for building materials.
The approved works also include modest alterations to the front elevation to create a more practical access arrangement while respecting the building's rural character.
Supporting Rural Businesses
The application demonstrated that the proposal would make a positive contribution to the rural economy through the reuse of an existing building for employment purposes. This approach is consistent with both national planning policy and the objectives of the Maldon Local Development Plan.
A key issue was the interpretation of Maldon District Council's rural diversification policies.
The planning statement highlighted that certain requirements of Local Plan Policy E4 have previously been found to be inconsistent with the National Planning Policy Framework by the Planning Inspectorate.
By relying on both national policy and relevant appeal decisions, it was demonstrated that the proposal represented an appropriate form of rural economic development.
Sensitive Design Approach
Only limited external alterations were proposed.
The replacement of the existing stable doors with a larger entrance and gable feature allows the building to function effectively as a storage facility whilst retaining its agricultural appearance.
The scale and design of the alterations ensure that the building continues to sit comfortably within its rural setting.
Addressing Technical Planning Issues
Although the site lies within Flood Zone 3, national planning policy confirms that changes of use are not subject to the Sequential or Exception Tests where supported by an appropriate Flood Risk Assessment.
The application demonstrated that the proposed storage use represented a low-intensity commercial activity and incorporated suitable flood resilience measures.
Ecological considerations were also carefully addressed through a detailed ecological survey.
The survey confirmed that the building did not provide habitat for bats or reptiles.
Successful Planning Outcome in Maldon
This approval demonstrates how existing rural buildings can often be successfully repurposed for commercial uses where proposals are supported by robust planning evidence and carefully prepared technical reports.
For landowners and rural businesses, the reuse of redundant or underused buildings can provide valuable commercial opportunities without the need for new-build development.
Planning Application Advice
If you are considering the conversion or change of use of an agricultural or rural building, I can provide independent planning advice and prepare planning applications throughout Essex, London and the South East.
Andrew Ransome MRTPI - Email: andrew@andrewransome.co.uk
About me
Andrew Ransome is a Planning Director and a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), with more than two decades of experience in town planning.
He specialises in delivering strategic planning solutions for complex developments across both rural and urban environments, helping clients navigate planning challenges and unlock development opportunities. Connect with Andrew on Linkedin.
Planning Approvals in Maldon
Planning Application Information
Get in touch for planning advice: Email: andrew@andrewransome.co.uk
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