The National Planning Policy Framework – what do the 2026 reforms mean for rural planning?
The Government’s proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) represent a significant change in the way national planning policy is structured and applied. The Framework separates plan-making policies from decision-making policies, with clearer policy references designed to make national planning policy more accessible and provide a more rules-based approach to planning decisions. For those […]
BNG Update
The Government has confirmed a number of changes to the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regime for developments requiring planning permission under the Town and Country Planning Act. These amendments, introduced through new regulations, represent the first phase of the Government’s 2025 BNG consultation and subsequent response published earlier this year. The new regulations will take effect from 6 August 2026 and introduce several important changes: Alongside the regulations, the Government has published an Explanatory Memorandum, an updated Impact Assessment, […]
Can You Buy a House With An Agricultural Occupancy Condition?
If you’re considering purchasing a rural property, you may come across homes with an agricultural occupancy condition. Understandably, this can raise questions. So, can you buy a house with an agricultural occupancy condition? In short, yes, you can. However, there are important restrictions and considerations you need to understand before proceeding. In this guide, we’ll […]
Up coming Events
We had a great couple of days at the Pig & Poultry Show at the NEC Birmingham this month. It was fantastic to see so many of you who stopped by the NFU stand and to catch up with familiar faces from across the sector. Looking ahead, here’s where you can find us over the […]
Changes to the Building Regulations: The Future Home Standards
The building regulations are constantly evolving. On the 24th March, the government announced the latest changes which will come in to force in March 2027. The changes mainly relate to the Future Homes Standard, which is the next step in progress towards zero carbon houses. Some of the changes have been in the news. The changes are significant because they will change the way new dwellings are designed, both […]
Fallback Enhancement
This barn conversion had already secured approval under Class Q, and Acorus was later brought in to refine the design and maximise its appeal for a future sale. Under the original Class Q rules, the conversion needed to be completed within three years. By submitting a full planning application, the timeline was reset allowing work […]
Agricultural Tie Properties: What You Need To Know Before Buying
Buying a rural home can be an exciting opportunity, offering space, privacy, and a peaceful lifestyle. However, if a property is subject to an agricultural tie, there are important legal and practical factors you must understand before proceeding. In this guide, we explain what agricultural tie properties are, how they work, and what you should […]
The 1908 Group: A Unified Force in Planning and Design Consultancy
Today marks the launch of The 1908 Group, comprising three leading names in planning and design consultancy: Acorus, PWA Planning and Woolf Bond Planning. The members of the Group offer unparalleled expertise in commercial, agricultural, and residential planning and design, delivered by a team of 60, including RIBA, RICS and RTPI certified professionals, operating across […]
From Barn to Bespoke Home
2025 brought about a considerable number of interesting design projects here at Acorus, one of which being the construction of a brand-new detached dwelling: the latest project at a rural site in East Devon. The clients and ourselves have enjoyed a hugely successful relationship over the years. We have creatively designed and secured planning approval […]