Cheshire: Plans refused to demolish 18th century farmhouse

Callands residents lodged strong opposition to proposals to dismantle the seven-bedroom 51 Willoughby Close, which dates back to the 18th century, and construct six newbuilds.

One letter of objection branded plans as ‘heritage vandalism’ – and they have now been rejected by Warrington Borough Council.

An online sales listing for £750,000 for the property describes it as a ‘dream home’ that is ‘brimming with potential’ and ‘period charm’, and with a ‘garden oasis’.

Planning documents state: “The intention is to provide a new residential scheme of comparable sized dwellings to similar properties in the immediate vicinity.”

They go on to say: “While the original farmhouse may have retained elements of traditional architecture, subsequent modifications, including the installation of UPVC windows, have altered its appearance.

The farmhouse in question on Willoughby Close in Callands. Picture: Hamlet Signature

“These changes reflect the property's adaptation to modern standards and functional requirements. This in our mind has lessened its heritage value.

“The numerous piecemeal extensions which have been approved over time have lost the original form of the build, which has altered the character so much it no longer offers significant heritage value.”

In total, 16 letters of objection were submitted, as well as opposition from Burtonwood and Westbrook Parish Council and ward councillor Brian Gallagher, who stated his intention to call the application in before the council’s development management committee for determination.

One objector, whose views are shared by others, said: “A beautiful, 18th century farmhouse is in danger of demolition if yet another housing developer is granted permission to develop more unwanted housing in an already congested and over-developed part of Warrington.

“The farmhouse in question is a beacon of our past heritage. The area is without many historic buildings, so this must be protected.

“The access starts with a sharp bend leading to a road with no pavements. Pedestrians in the past have had close shaves because of parked cars and have been given no option than to walk in the centre of the road.

The farmhouse in question on Willoughby Close in Callands. Picture: Hamlet Signature

“The sheer size of site vehicles having to gain access to the site over what could be many months will cause a great deal of inconvenience to residents and the general public, creating noise and a potential safety risk to pedestrians.

“With hundreds of houses already added to areas around Omega, it seems that developers are looking to squeeze any housing in at any opportunity with no regard to the impact it has on schools, traffic and other public services.

“I know it does not sound like six more houses will make that much difference, but it is the bigger picture that they are now tearing down a historic landmark to cash in at the expense of residents.

“If this development goes ahead, then a little bit of the town’s history goes with it. This is heritage vandalism.”

In refusing permission, the council said: “On the basis of the above assessment, it is considered that the proposal represents over development and over intensification of the site, and would be out of keeping with the defined character of the area.

“The proposal would also have unacceptable impacts in terms of local heritage, ecology and flood risk, and would also adversely affect residential amenity and the highway network.”