Letter to Fire Authority (Barn conversion)

Home » Letter to Fire Authority (Barn conversion)

Subject: Fire Safety Concerns Regarding Adjacent Agricultural Barn and Proposed Change of Use

Dear Chief Fire Officer,

I am writing to express my concerns regarding a large agricultural barn situated adjacent to my property in a rural area near Petersfield. The barn, constructed of concrete, wood, and steel, currently houses various household items and miscellaneous materials. Given its construction and contents, I am apprehensive about the potential fire risks it poses, especially considering the limited fire safety provisions in our area.

My concerns have been further heightened by a recent planning application proposing to convert this barn into a storage and distribution depot. Such a change of use could potentially increase the fire load and associated risks, thereby endangering my property and the surrounding area.

The location of the property is:

1. Steep Marsh Farm, Barn At Rockpits Lane Steep MarshPetersfield Hampshire GU32 2BN
   Along side Great Oast, Steepmarsh
2. What 3 words
   trials.tumblers.gathers
3. Google map link and references
   https://maps.app.goo.gl/GYPcRvHqJJMmjLia8
   51.032195, -0.925640

I kindly request information on the following:

1. Planning Provisions:
   • What fire safety measures and provisions are typically required or recommended during the planning stages for such developments, especially in rural settings with limited infrastructure?
   • Are there specific guidelines or regulations that address fire risks associated with storage and distribution facilities in rural areas?
   • In recent applications I understand there is a requirement to have fire hydrants within a minimum distance – is this the case in this instance?
2. Emergency Response:
   • Given the single-track roads and limited access routes in our area, how would the fire service approach and manage an emergency response to incidents at this location?
   • Are there any assessments or plans in place to address potential challenges in accessing properties like mine during emergencies?

I would appreciate any guidance or recommendations you can provide to ensure that appropriate fire safety measures are considered during the planning process and that adequate emergency response plans are in place.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.

Yours sincerely,

Chair – Steepmarsh Residents Assoc

Cc

1. South Downs Park planning
2. Local councillors
3. Parish Council