A plan to convert an ancient barn into a home, which split council officers and planners, has taken another significant step forward. 

The scheme for the timber frame and brick barn at Barretts Lane Farm to become a four-bedroom home received planning permission in the summer.

Applicant Brendan Connor then applied to Solihull Council to sign off preparatory conditions which feature in the planning permission agreement. 

An application to formally 'discharge' conditions three (materials), four (description of action) and five (programme of archaeological work) was submitted to the authority in September. 

And the authority's website now shows planners signed off the conditions on November 19. 

The Grade II listed timber framed barn, which has fallen into disrepair, was built in 1590 with extensions built in the 1940s.

Before getting approval Solihull Council's officers had recommended refusal saying the proposed development would harm the "designated heritage assets" at the Balsall Common farm.

But the applicant argued the plans would be "fully compliant" with the National Planning Policy Framework, English Heritage Guidelines and Solihull Council policies and highlighted the positives of the scheme.

At the planning committee meeting Councillor Andrew Burrow, who represents the Meriden ward where the farm is based, said: "We don't have much in the way of historical assets in Balsall Common.

"The historic barn is on the point of collapse.

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

Permission was granted after the committee voted in favour by a majority at the meeting held at the Civic Suite in July.