Historic Manor Farmhouse set to get new lease of life as community building

A historic farmhouse which has fallen into disrepair is going to get a new lease of life as a community building.

Ashwood Homes has been granted planning permission to change the use of the farmhouse and outbuilding at Manor Farm, in Fen Road, Holbeach, by South Holland District Council.

The red brick farmhouse dates back to around 1800 and has not been lived in for more than 40 years, according to a heritage assessment which accompanied the planning application.

While it is unclear how this building will be used in the future, possible options allowed under the permission could include a shop, hall, sport and recreation or indoor or outdoor swimming pool or skating rink.

A decision notice issued by the district council states: “This site is situated within Holbeach, a main service centre, and as such development shall be permitted that supports their role as a service centre for the settlement itself, helps sustain existing facilities or helps meet the service needs of other local communities.

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“In this instance, all of the potential uses described within Use Class F.2 do support Holbeach's role as a service centre and directly contribute to the service needs of the housing development planned to be constructed around it. Therefore, the principle of development is accepted.

“As it stands, Manor Farm and the associated outbuildings are in a poor state of repair, and have been historically altered in an insensitive manor. This application seeks demolition of the large flat roofed 20th century extensions and various points of the external outbuilding walls, to create modern openings to support the proposed uses. Additionally, large quantities of internal minor demolition is required to create usable community spaces.

“The proposed demolition of the 20th century extensions is seen an an undisputed positive, as these extensions are not of any value to the asset whatsoever.”

Find out about planning applications that affect you at the Public Notice Portal.

Ashwood Homes is looking to build around 900 dwellings as part of its Holbeach Meadows development.

How would you like to see the building used? Post a comment below