Hances Cottage

Hances Cottage

Hances Cottage is a grade II listed building and the two additions needed to be designed in different ways to avoid spoiling the original house and its setting in the greenbelt.  Permission was granted locally in February 2010.

There was considerable controversy concerning the proposals, however, according to the planning officers report, District Historic Buildings Officer commented: “I therefore consider that this is a well-thought-out, imaginative proposal for this site, that should ensure viability for the listed building, without need for further alteration in the foreseeable future.  Its standard of design in response to the specific character of the site is worthy of some encouragement.

In summary: Although the scheme for enlarging the accommodation of the listed cottage is extensive, it should have minimal impact on the immediate historic character and fabric of the cottage, and, in my opinion, should not harm the setting of either the cottage or the listed garden walls.  As a scheme for extension of a listed building in this particular context I think that it has some merit.  I therefore see no reason for raising objection on listed building grounds as long as  any Consent and permission are subject to the conditions below.”

(my emphasis))

Furthermore: “In my opinion the design is clever in its use of the existing wall to screen the extension from the main historic build, and in its contemporary adaptation of garden/glasshouse themes.  It is also successful in suggesting a separate modern unit that leaves the main listed building untouched, and that does not appear to compete with it in terms of height or scale.”