Restoration & Refurbishment

Help and advice needed! Pre-planning enquiry re: outbuilding renovation

Anonymous user 09/03/2024 - 2.30 PM

I'm in the process of buying an 1850s house (originally a pub, converted to a home approx 50 years ago I think). The property has an outbuilding that includes an integral garage at the front, which I believe used to be a stable because of the cobblestone flooring. The total outbuilding is approx 14.5m x 3.6m and although dilapidated it has windows, a side door, power and lighting as well as garage doors at the front. I would like to renovate the outbuilding into a flexible space that could be used as an office/guest accommodation, including a kitchenette and small bathroom/wetroom (shower, toilet, sink). The local council's planning dept have suggested I submit a pre-planning enquiry which needs a basic floor plan as well as photographs and a description of the works I'd like to do. I only have one photo of the interior and several on the estate agent's brochure of the exterior, and for reasons I won't go into here it isn't possible for me to gain access to take any further measurements or photos. Based on the limited information I have at this stage, I'm looking for any advice and guidance - likely cost, best layout etc, but also for any thoughts on how to make it as eco-friendly as possible. It's in a conservation area btw. Can anyone out there help as I'm totally new to the world of property renovation and feel out of my depth! Many thanks, Harriet