The Round House, Church Stretton, Shropshire.

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Following the refusal of Listed Building Consent for new windows En-Plan were approached by the owners to work on a new application and ultimately gain  consent.  En-Plan are working on this project in partnership with The Heritage Glass Group who are based in Shrewsbury to provide the required technical detail and historical background  in order to satisfy the Planning Officer and Conservation Officer dealing with the Planning Application.  Both En-Plan and The Heritage Glass Group have a proven track record in delivering successful projects where heritage assets are concerned and as the project progressed the experience of both elements ultimately lead to a successful outcome.

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En-Plan set out to overcome the initial reasons for for the historical planning refusal by looking at how any scheme would affect the Listed Building and the wider Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within which the property is set. The Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a designated protected landscape located in the county of Shropshire, England. It covers approximately 802 square kilometers (309 square miles) of diverse and picturesque landscapes.

The history of the Shropshire Hills AONB can be traced back thousands of years. The area has a rich and varied history of human settlement, agriculture, industry, and cultural heritage. Here are some key historical aspects of the Shropshire Hills AONB:

1. Ancient History: The Shropshire Hills have evidence of human occupation dating back to the Neolithic period. Archaeological sites, such as hillforts, burial mounds, and stone circles, indicate early human activity and settlement in the area.

2. Roman Influence: During the Roman occupation of Britain, the area now within the AONB was part of the frontier region. Roman roads, forts, and settlements were established, leaving traces of their presence, including the Roman town of Wroxeter, which lies just outside the AONB boundaries.

3. Medieval Period: The medieval period saw the development of towns and villages in the area, such as Church Stretton, Much Wenlock, and Clun. These settlements were often located near natural resources and trade routes, and they played important roles in regional commerce and agriculture.

4. Agriculture and Rural Life: Throughout history, the Shropshire Hills have been primarily rural and agricultural in character. Traditional farming practices, including sheep farming and livestock grazing, have shaped the landscape and maintained its distinctive character.

5. Industrial Heritage: The Shropshire Hills AONB is also known for its industrial heritage. Coal mining, lead mining, and quarrying were important industries in the area in the past. The remains of former mines, quarries, lime kilns, and other industrial structures can still be seen today, adding to the area's historical significance.

6. Conservation and Protection: The Shropshire Hills AONB was designated in 1958 to protect and conserve its natural and cultural heritage. The designation aims to balance the conservation of the landscape with sustainable development and the enjoyment of the area by residents and visitors.

 

Today, the Shropshire Hills AONB attracts visitors who appreciate its outstanding natural beauty, diverse wildlife, recreational opportunities, and historical attractions. The area's history and natural features contribute to its unique character and make it a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and nature exploration.

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Firstly with regard to the Listed Status of the Building En-plan The property itself is a Grade II listed building described as formerly being a School, now a house. Constructed in1790 of sandstone rubble; with an octagonal roof of C20 composite tiles; central dressed stone circular stack with bands and C20 brick superstructure. EXTERIOR: 2 storeys; C20 fenestration and door; ashlar hood moulds to ground-floor windows; chain retaining band at first-floor level; ashlar eaves band. Porch with C20 roof, door and light. INTERIOR: C20 radiating partition walls.  The Planning Officer found that the detail provided assured her that the scheme would preserve and enhance the setting of the heritage asset and as of September 2021 En-Plan received Listed Building Consent for the new sash windows at the property from Shropshire County Council.

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En-Plan have subsequently worked with the owners in early 2022 to gain approval for a detached garage and home office in the grounds of the property .The application proposed the erection of detached double garage and store following demolition of existing garage. The site lies within the setting of the listed building and contains a modern garage structure to be demolished. Shropshire County Council had no conservation objections to the demolition of the existing structure as it does not hold any historic interest. The proposed garage is a larger structure but the Council were happy that through the use of appropriate materials it is considered that on balance the proposals would not create undue harm to the setting of the listed building in this instance.

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If you would like to find out more about how our Planning Consultancy and Architectural Design Services can work in perfect sync to achieve a successful outcome in the planning system and assist with any Listed Building issues you may have please CONTACT US and we will be only too happy to talk through any questions or development proposals you may have.  We look forward to meeting you.

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