Plans to convert a former sheep barn into four four-bedroom homes have been refused for a second time.

Patricia Hewitt submitted proposals to Ribble Valley Borough Council in December to convert the barn at Alston Old Hall Farm, between Longridge and Grimsargh, with it not having been used for farming since 2021.

This was refused in January, but Ms Hewitt returned with a new application in June.

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The planning statement said: “The proposed development consists of the conversion of a former agricultural building to four dwellings.

“The main difference between the Class Q approved scheme and what is now proposed is the internal layout of the building, which is split into four rather than five units to better suit the needs of the applicants.

“The application building is rectangular in shape and has been designed with four units each with four bedrooms, family bathroom, and an office laid over the first and second floors, with living, dining, and kitchen to the ground floors.”

Again, though, the council felt the required work would constitute extensive building which would affect its character, rendering it inappropriate.

They said in a decision notice: “The works that would be required to facilitate the proposed development are considered to fall within the realm of extensive building and major alteration that would adversely affect the character or appearance of the building.

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“As such, the proposal is not considered to be an appropriate conversion.

“The resultant dwellings, parking, and garden areas and associated domestic paraphernalia would have an urbanising impact upon the surrounding open countryside that would be harmful to the visual amenities of the immediate and wider landscape.”

Ms Hewitt has six months to appeal the council’s decision if she wishes to.

To view the plans in full, visit the council’s planning website.