Conversion of Historic Stable in Chelmsford to a Granny Annexe
We are delighted that Chelmsford City Council has granted planning permission for the conversion of an historic stable in Danbury, Essex. The proposed conversion would enable the building to be used as a granny annex in association with the existing farmhouse building.
The proposed granny annexe was required in this instance to enable our client to live in multi-generational household, whilst still retaining some independent living. The main dwelling and the granny annexe would be functional linked, with a shared use of some facilities.
For this project, we acted as the planning consultant, working alongside Pace Architecture, who provided the detailed design.
The Historic Barn
The application site is located in a fairly isolated position, away from the closest village of Danbury. It comprises a former farmyard that served the land surrounding it.
The farmhouse itself comprises a Grade II Listed 15th/16th century timber framed house. The buildings within the former farmyard are 'deemed' to be listed by virtue of being within the curtilage of a listed farmhouse building, and as such are afforded the same protection and restrictions imposed as a listed building.
The stable building, for which a conversion is being sought, appears on 1808 mapping, and is therefore over 200 years old. It forms a typical Napoleonic War Ear building. The Stable is a simple building and its layout has changed little since this time, with the exception of the addition of a room in the mid-19th Century and mid-20th Century internal alterations.
Barn Conversion: The Planning Process
Architect: Pace Architecture
Given the historic sensitivity of the site, we ensured that the proposals were supported by robust evidence that assessed the suitability of converting this stable building to a residential use. A number of third-party consultants were engaged to provide structural analysis, historic assessment and ecological surveys.
We then engaged with Chelmsford City Council through pre-application discussions to agree an appropriate design that could be taken forward to enable the conversion of this building to a granny annex.
This approach ensured that the planning application, once submitted, went smoothly and a decision was issued promptly and within the target decision date deadline.
Are you considering a development project involving an historic barn?
Are you considering undertaking a development project involving an historic building? If so, contact us at mail@adpltd.co.uk or use the form below to understand how we can assist and guide you through the planning process.
