Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent Granted

Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent Granted

March 11, 2022

We have recently gained permission for works to a Grade II listed cottage near Wickhambrook, Suffolk.  The picturesque dwelling consists of shuttered clay or clay lump and dates from the early to mid-19th century.  Originally designed as a pair of two-up, two-down tenements sharing a central chimney, it is now formed into a single dwelling with a weatherboarded lean-to on the west gable end.   Its slender internal structure – ceiling joists, rafters and studwork – is consistent with its small internal proportions.  Very few structures of this nature remain, this property represents an important illustration of the smallest rural dwellings of the 19th century.

The planning permission provides the building with a sympathetic new pitched thatched roof kitchen range extending into the garden along with a replacement and enlargement of a weatherboarded lean-to on its west side.  At first floor the property gains a new shower room. The scale of the extension Is small enough to preserve the primacy of the original structure.  Its thatched roof and white windows will integrate the new into the old, while the white timber cladding, overhanging roof and large gable window (not to mention thicker and well insulated walls) will introduce contemporary elements which reflect the highest standards of design.

Following the technical design and Building Regulations approval, work is expected to commence in 2022.

Thanks to Leigh Alston MA (Oxon), Architectural Historian for help with a Heritage Asset Assessment.