PLANNING permission has been granted to convert a historic farmhouse into new flats in Droitwich.
Willow Court Farmhouse on Westwood Road will be transformed from its current state of disrepair into six new affordable homes including five one bed flats and one two bed flat.
The project – given the go ahead by Wychavon District Council’s planning committee on Thursday (October 12) – will also deliver landscaping improvements, 10 parking bays for residents and guests, as well as cycling storage and electric vehicle charging points.
Planning and conservation officers determined the project would bring the historical asset back into good condition while preserving its appearance and character – in line with the South Worcestershire Development Plan and listed building regulations.
Councillor Andrew Dyke said: “I think we would all agree, Boycott Farm, Willow Court has seen better days.
“However a very exciting project this will be.
“Perhaps it’s going to be years to get this together to what we want and we’ll be proud of it once it’s finished.
“I have no qualms with putting it up for approval but It’s whether we can condition an ongoing relationship with nearby residents that informs them of the direction of travel in building this.”
It was confirmed the council would have regular contact with nearby residents to keep them informed on the progress of the development.
Councillor Margaret Rowley said: “I very much support the council keeping in contact with the local residents.
“I think that will be tremendously helpful and very much appreciated.
“With that principle, I’m certainly happy to support the application.”
Coun Emma Kearsey said: “Wychavon are to be applauded for being able to bring this scheme to fruition.
“This is being done with absolute care and precision to preserve this property.
“I have pleasure in seconding approval.”
The Worcestershire Building Preservation Trust received over £250,000 of development funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to support development of the Grade II listed building a couple of years ago.
The trust will work with Platform Housing and Wychavon District Council – who own the building and approved the application to complete the works.
The council’s highways authority had no objections to the proposal and listed building consent was also given for the project.
