Finally started some proper work after sorting all the ownership & planning issues.
All the roof strcture has now gone and years of Bull poo which was filling my bedroom has been removed - floor level set and building notice now in so ready to get started with the foundations.
Over the past few months I have been bartering my web design services with plumbers, electricians, decorators and general builders, hopefully keeping my costs down - just need a company that will do me the oak frame at the right price!
Will try to take my camera next time I go to site.

First Sod.

First hole dug on site to expose what foundations might be present in and around the barn.

Looking OK, hopfully I'll finally be able to get underway with the groundworks fairly shortly.

Got a meeting tomorrow with my structural engineer so hopefully foundation design will be sorted soon and I can get work started.

Ouch - I have a delicate head this morning, spent the last part of the evening in the Firs club in Codsall last night watching Stoke beat Birmingham 3-2 with a fantastic goal from Ricardo Fuller.
First part of the evening was spend listening to councillors waffle on about things they don't understand, however my planning application was APPROVED!!!!

Brilliant - I can now start the hard work - just after I've had another coffee...
:-)

Today's the Day!!!

Planning meeting tonight so I might miss some of Stoke v. Birmingham which is live on sky, but it has been officially recommended for approval now so hopefully all will go well.

Swindon Marina has been pulled though so not much else to be discussed and it looks like I might be the second application up for discussion.
Going to the pub for a few drinks afterwards regardless!

The all important planning meeting looms ever closer, in two days time. The 199 berth marina at Swindon village is also on the agenda so hopefully the planners will tire themselves out and not make any silly decisions on my barn. With a bit of luck it will be approved and I can finally get cracking on the foundations.
Having had a bit of hassle from Eastcote, hopefully they'll back off after this week when they get a further payment from me.

Planning.
Determination date for planning is set at the 10th November and although I have been asked to remove the porch from the plans, they are going to recommend an approval. Considering it was originally a definate no, it's great news.