Walmsleys Barn, Heskin Chorley – Barn Conversion

A Sensitive Self-Build Scheme Approved in Rural Lancashire

Planning permission has been secured for the careful redevelopment of Walmsleys Barn in Heskin, Lancashire. The approved scheme introduces three self-build family homes on a previously developed rural site, allowing a long-established local family to remain within the village while improving the quality and character of the land. Former equestrian buildings and hardstanding have been replaced with a restrained residential composition that sits comfortably within its setting and aligns with the NPPF 2024 “grey belt” provisions for sustainable development in the Green Belt. Studio FRI acted as lead architectural consultant and strategic advisor, guiding the project from early feasibility through to planning approval. The practice shaped the architectural response, coordinated the wider consultant team and steered the proposal through a complex policy context with clarity and
precision. The result is a composed, policy-aware scheme that balances planning certainty with long term suitability for family living, reflecting Studio FRI’s expertise in rural architecture and self-build planning across Lancashire.

Planning-Led Design in a Village Context

Set off Wood Lane and framed by existing homes, Walmsleys Barn occupies a contained position within the village fabric of Heskin, with local amenities within walking distance. The approved layout replaces redundant structures with three modestly scaled dwellings arranged to reflect the grain and rhythm of surrounding development. Particular care was taken to ensure the scheme respected settlement form, landscape character and Green Belt openness, while responding to the specific needs of a multi-generational family. Studio FRI prepared the full architectural submission and worked closely with the planning consultant, landscape architect and technical specialists to ensure a coherent, disciplined approach. The success of the project reflects the value of aligning design judgement with planning strategy from the outset.

Grey Belt Redevelopment with Architectural Restraint

Walmsleys Barn demonstrates how previously developed Green Belt land can be re-used responsibly when guided by careful design and a clear understanding of policy. By replacing low-quality utilitarian buildings with a restrained architectural language, the scheme improves visual amenity without asserting itself on the wider landscape. The development preserves openness, strengthens the village edge and delivers homes that feel grounded in place rather than imposed upon it. Studio FRI’s role extended beyond architecture alone, helping articulate a robust planning case that drew together land-use history, context and family need into a credible and well-judged proposal.

Studio FRI’s Role

Studio FRI led the project as architectural designer and planning advisor, providing site analysis, concept development and the full planning drawing package, while coordinating input from planning, landscape, ecology, arboricultural and highways consultants. Throughout the process, the practice provided clear, measured guidance to support informed decision-making and a confident route to planning approval.

Considering a Self-Build or Rural Project?

Walmsleys Barn is a quiet demonstration of what can be achieved when architectural thinking and planning strategy are aligned. For clients considering self-build homes, rural development or Green Belt sites across Lancashire, Studio FRI oAers a design-led, planning-informed approach that brings clarity where projects are complex and confidence where decisions matter.

Contact Studio FRI to discuss your project.