Listed barn conversion set for approval

You are viewing content from Sunshine Radio Ludlow. Would you like to make this your preferred location?

Wednesday, 17 October 2018 16:24

By Emily Lloyd - Local Democracy Reporter

The conversion of an 18th century barn near Ludlow into a family home has received the backing of planning experts.

Rob Bryant hopes to alter and extend the redundant Grade Two listed agricultural building at The Grove in Ashford Bowdler into a five-bedroom property with a garage.

He is also seeking permission to change the nearby agricultural land to form a domestic curtilage.

Cathryn Robinson, planning officer for Shropshire Council, has recommended his proposal ahead of next Tuesday’s South Planning Committee meeting.

She said the building, which dates back to the 1840s, currently includes containing stables, a cart shed and a byre (cowshed).

However, although Ashford Bowdler Parish Council support the conversion, they have objected to the changes and design features shown on the latest drawings.

They said: “The design needs a major rethink to better align with the rest of this conservation village; the water treatment plan should be reconsidered to eliminate waste water flowing into the culvert; the garage should be redesigned to avoid it being an eyesore.”

The proposal has also received 16 comments from members of the public with 11 of those against the development.

In response, Ms Robinson said: “It is acknowledged that much of the objections received do not find favour with a contemporary design, however such an approach is considered preferable to a pastiche in this case.

“There is resistance to the reinstating of historical forms and design elements in the absence of sound evidence of their historic existence and merit.

“The introduction of more modern designed elements allows the main heritage component to remain the predominant feature of the property, and allows the historic context and evolution of the building to be legibly read.

“Though the proposed built form would be forward of the principal elevation of the main building, the siting is considered appropriate in this instance echoing the local character of ancillary outbuildings.”

Conversion of the barn has previously been approved through two separate planning applications.

Members will make their decision on the current application when they meet at Shirehall in Shrewsbury from 2pm.

More from Local News

Today's Weather

  • Ludlow

    Heavy Rain

    High: 10°C | Low: 3°C

Like Us On Facebook