Clay Lane

The project at Hurst Farm, Jacobs Well, Guildford, relates to a Class R prior approval application for the change of use of an existing agricultural building to flexible commercial storage (Use Class B8) for a marquee hire business. The site is located within the Green Belt but benefits from an established agricultural use, with the building and associated hardstanding accessed from Clay Lane. The proposal sought to utilise the existing barn without any physical alterations, ensuring compliance with Class R limitations, including floorspace and curtilage thresholds. All operational activities, including marquee storage and drying, are predominantly contained within the building, supporting a low-impact form of rural diversification.

A key planning consideration was demonstrating lawful agricultural use of the building at the relevant date (3 July 2012), which was fully accepted by the Local Planning Authority. Given the building exceeded 150 sqm, a detailed assessment was required across transport, noise, contamination, and flood risk. Supporting technical evidence confirmed that the development would not result in a material increase in traffic or adverse highway impacts, while noise impacts were deemed acceptable subject to a condition restricting hours of operation. Environmental Health raised no concerns regarding contamination, and the site’s location within Flood Zone 1 ensured no flood risk constraints.

The scheme represents a compliant and sustainable reuse of rural buildings within the Green Belt, balancing economic activity with minimal environmental and visual impact. Prior approval was granted in December 2025, subject to standard conditions including a three-year implementation period, adherence to approved plans, and operational hour restrictions. The project highlights the effectiveness of Class R provisions in enabling rural economic growth while addressing key planning considerations through proportionate technical assessment