Decision imminent on converting stable into residences

Local councillors may soon reach a verdict on proposals to convert 19th-century stables near a protected nature area into residential properties. The stables, built in 1885 and owned by the Church, are situated at St Johns Farmyard, close to Wansford just outside Peterborough, adjacent to the ancient Bedford Purlieus National Nature Reserve.

The Church Commissioners for England, responsible for managing Church of England properties, have submitted a planning application to Peterborough City Council to create three new homes. Planning officers have recommended approval, but a councillor requested the proposal be reviewed by the planning committee, scheduled to meet on Tuesday.

Independent councillor Gavin Elsey, representing Wittering, expressed concern over the potential loss of a community facility and questioned the accuracy of some information provided in the application. He urged the Church Commissioners to demonstrate both the lack of demand for the stables and the availability of alternative local facilities.

In addition, seven other residents have lodged objections. Among them is a neighbor who submitted a detailed 50-page document highlighting possible environmental and traffic impacts from the development.

The proposed plan involves constructing three single-storey homes. City council planners maintain their recommendation to approve the application, assessing the commercial equestrian use of the stableswhere horses are kept for a feeas not a leisure facility requiring extensive evidence of loss.

The potential harm to the historic building was judged to be minimal. Council officers noted that careful restoration, external improvements, and ensuring the buildings sustainable long-term use would mitigate any negative effects.

Author's Analysis: Weighing Heritage Against Development

The proposed conversion of the 19th-century stables at St Johns Farmyard presents a clear tension between heritage preservation and residential expansion. While planning officers maintain that the stables' commercial equestrian use does not constitute a leisure facility, local councillors and residents remain concerned about the potential loss of community resources and environmental impacts.

Independent councillor Gavin Elsey has highlighted discrepancies in the planning application and questioned the demonstration of alternative facilities, signaling that the decision will require careful scrutiny beyond the officers' recommendation. The objections from seven residents, including a detailed environmental and traffic analysis, underscore the level of local engagement and caution.

From a planning perspective, the proposed three single-storey homes appear to pose minimal risk to the historic building, with suggested restoration and sustainability measures. However, the ultimate verdict by the council committee will need to balance the long-term community interest, heritage conservation, and the Church Commissioners’ objectives.

Sources:

• Decision soon on plan to turn stable into homes