A FORMER chicken shed on the outskirts of Kings Worthy is set to be converted into housing.

The change of use of the building at North Winchester Farm was allowed by Winchester City Council under permitted development rights available to convert some redundant agricultural buildings.

Pro Vision, a firm of planners and architects, designed the scheme on behalf of the landowner, the Humphreys Partnership. Plans include sub-dividing the barn into three dwellings.

A planning statement by Pro Vision said there will only be minor changes to the external appearance with the installation of new rooflights, external timber cladding to the blockwork walls and new lightweight composite roof panels.

Built in 1990, the building was used for free range and barn egg production until April 2017. Richard Osborn, senior planner at Pro Vision, said: “The closure of the poultry business as a result of change within the industry, meant alternative uses had to be considered. The proposal is an exciting project that is fully compliant with the Government’s objectives to make more efficient use of redundant buildings and met all the tests.”