An empty barn which has fallen into disrepair may be converted into accommodation for tourists.

Planning permission is sought for five holiday lets in a former cattle shed at Abbey Farm, Higham.

Although the single-storey pre-cast concrete building needs a new roof, it is structurally sound.

Built in 1960s for livestock, it is now surplus to requirements.

Each unit would have its own car parking space.

If approved, the structure in Church Street would be re-clad with weatherboarding, a traditional local building material.

It’s within the Metropolitan Green Belt looking out to open agricultural fields and a cluster of homes.

A letter of objection has been sent from the Dickens’ Country Protection Group on the grounds that it is in the green belt, it would impact on wildlife and result in extra traffic.

It states:”In the society’s view, the building is not suitable for conversion and requires too much new building for it to be considered a conversion.”