The company Nordec, had planning permission to convert the shed 'sympathetically.' However magistrates heard the barn at High Onn, near Church Eaton, had been demolished and a new dwelling built in its place. The court was told the company had not complied with an order to knock the new building down.

As a result Nordec was found guilty of failing to comply with an enforcement notice and fined £20,000 - the maximum penalty for the offence. They were also ordered to pay more than £1500 in costs.

Stafford Borough Council is now warning builders they face heavy fines if they spoil the countryside with illegal developments.

Councillor Doug Davis, cabinet member for planning and regeneration said: "This should send out a warning that the council will not tolerate people who are granted permission to convert old buildings and then build completely new houses in the open countryside."