HISTORIC BARN TO BE BROUGHT BACK TO LIFE
MDP has been working with clients on the development of a new barn conversion in Blewbury, a stunning village in Oxfordshire.
The barn is set within the grounds of a beautiful Grade II listed three bedroom cottage, dating back to the 1700s, within the Conservation Area. Whilst not in good condition and with plenty of evidence of later repairs, the barn itself is structurally sound. Historic England dates it to the 18th century, possibly earlier.
Throughout the design element of this planning project it was crucial to respect the barn’s historic setting and develop plans that worked to preserve the historic fabric of the barn, whilst elevating its standing within this historically important village.
Roosting bats were also found on the site, and MDP worked with our clients to ultimately create a net gain of biodiversity by translocating these bats and adding habitats for wildlife including new bird boxes, adding vegetation through tree planting and the protection of a pond within the garden of the property.
There was initial resistance from the Local Planning Authority (LPA) at the pre-application stage, with six potential areas for refusal including highway access, impact on heritage assets, trees, drainage, parking, ecology, protected trees, the design treatment and impact on the Conservation Area. However, through close management and liaison, MDP were able to break down and overcome their concerns.
Planning permission and Listed Building consent is now in place for this exceptional barn conversion with an extension.
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