Solihull planners went against advice as they approved conversion of an ancient barn into a home. 

The application for the barn plan at Barn Barretts Lane Farm went before the latest meeting of Solihull Council's planning committee. 

Applicant Brendan Connor proposed the scheme for the timber frame and brick barn, built in 1590 with extensions built in the 1940s, to become a four-bedroom home.

In the public speaking section, he told the meeting: "Our application saves the building for future public benefit. 

"We believe that is what the public would want. This is such an exceptional case that it will not create precedence – it will guarantee the building will survive for future generations."

But council officers had recommended the plan be rejected saying it would harm the "designated heritage assets" on green belt land at the Balsall Common farm.

Planning officer Kim Allen explained a previous application for the barn, which received permission in 2020, had an 18 per cent volume increase taking into account extensions. 

She said the new application – with proposed extensions of a kitchen, dining room and living room; sitting room and principal bedroom with dressing room and ensuite – was a 77 per cent volume increase making it unacceptable to officers. 

Councillor Andrew Burrow, who represents the Meriden ward where the farm is based, said he found himself in the unusual position of "strongly supporting" a planning application. 

"We don't have much in the way of historical assets in Balsall Common," he said. 

"The historic barn is on the point of collapse. Planning permission was previously given to clad it in timber to keep it standing. 

"We have the opportunity here to save an ancient barn in a way that retains its structure."

During the debate of committee members Councillor Dave Pinwell said: "I would really like to see this heritage asset saved". 

Councillor Sardul Marwa said he had concerns it would set a precedent for building in the green belt if approved.

The committee's chairman, Bob Grinsell, voiced surprise that officers in their report had said the building was not considered to be in a poor state after having made a visit to the site.

He added: "This is going to be a difficult decision – it's our decision."

When the vote was taken the committee voted in favour of granting planning permission and giving listed building consent with a majority of seven votes.

The scheme went before the committee's meeting held at the Civic Suite on Wednesday, (July 10).