HISTORIC barns situated on a farm near Holsworthy could fall into further decay and disrepair if they are not converted into dwellings, Cornwall Council has been told.

The redundant agricultural barns which were built in the 19th century are located at Blagdon Manor Farm in North Tamerton are the subject of proposals to convert into three dwellings.

If approved, it would see the three barns converted into two three-bedroom dwellings and one one-bedroom dwelling. All three of the converted barns would have private gardens and designated parking spaces.

The applicant’s planning agent said that they had been warned by the structural surveyors that without the works, the barns could deteriorate further.

The warning stated: “A survey and structural report on the barns for conversion was carried out by Foukes Jackson Fewings Civil and Structural Engineers in November 2025, the full report is included a part of the application and concludes that: The barns are considered to be well-built and relatively typical examples of their type.

“Whilst each has suffered from structural and weathering problems, these are considered to be relatively minor and do not go beyond what might be expected in buildings of their age. Left unchecked the barns are likely to decay further and could fall into greater disrepair.

“This report concludes that all three of the barns are structurally capable of conversion as is proposed such that they may be conserved and continue to be a valuable asset to the context in which they are set.”

Stating that the plans should be approved, the planning agent added: “This small development and re-use of existing building should be recognised as providing a valuable contribution to helping the countries housing crisis without the need for new build development.”

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The plans can be viewed using reference PA26/06203 on the Cornwall Council planning portal.