Plans to transform Moulton Chapel stable block into assisted living accommodation refused due to ‘poor standard of living’ concerns

A request to convert a stable block into assisted living accommodation has been refused.

Applicant Anneka Riley wanted to make the changes to the building at Decoy Farm on Moulton Chapel’s Fen Gate to create two self-contained units.

However, South Holland District Council turned down the plans, saying they would offer a ‘poor standard of living’.

“The application seeks full planning permission for the conversion of an existing stable block into two self-contained units to provide assisted living accommodation,” the planning officer’s report stated.

“The submitted plans show two proposed dwellings within the stable block, and the submitted application form indicates that the two market housing dwellings are proposed.”

“The submission sets out that the building has previously been used as a stable.”

However, the report - which included an objection from Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue on the grounds of ‘inadequate access’ - highlighted concerns regarding the plans, including space.

“One of the proposed dwellings features approximately 33sqm of internal floorspace, and the other dwelling features approximately 27sqm,” it explained.

“The nationally described space standard (NDSS) recommends that a minimum of 37sqm of floorspace is provided for a one-bedroom, one-person dwelling with a shower room.

“Neither of the dwellings accords with this recommendation and it is considered that the proposed dwellings would not provide sufficient internal living space.

“This would result in a poor standard of living for future occupants.

“The applicant's agent has set out that the proposed dwellings would provide ancillary accommodation and that further living space would be provided within the main dwelling, which in this case is Decoy Farm.

“However, the application is for two independent dwellings, not ancillary accommodation and it is considered that there should be sufficient internal living space within the dwellings for occupants.”

The report added: “Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue service have objected to the proposed development and it is considered that there is insufficient information to demonstrate whether a fire engine can access the site, including all parts of the building that is proposed to be converted.”