. . long straw

Britain has an estimated 60,000 thatched properties, of which about half are listed. Until now many planning authorities have insisted on the use of wheat straw for repairs and reroofing.

Roofs thatched with wheat straw typically need replacing every 15 to 20 years at a cost of £600 to £800 per 10 sq ft, the thatcher's traditional measure (about 1 square metre). Water reed, which is only permitted in areas where its use is traditional, can last 60 years.