Curtilage Overview

Within the cottage’s curtilage sits a detached single‑room outbuilding with a lean‑to entrance lobby and a bay window on one side. While its exact construction date is unclear, mapping evidence suggests a structure occupied this location as early as 1881. It is possible the existing building replaced an earlier one, but no record confirming this has been found.

No. 1 is a Grade II listed coursed rubblestone cottage topped with a traditional red‑tile roof and brick gable stacks. Its principal south‑facing elevation features paired four‑pane casement windows set beneath timber lintels, framing a central panelled entrance door. A single‑storey rear projection with an enclosed lobby was added in the late 1990s.

Often referred to as the “schoolhouse,” the outbuilding retains a traditional fireplace and chimney. However, poor insulation, a lack of ventilation, and inadequate heating have caused the building fabric to deteriorate. Both the bay window and the lean-to lobby are later additions and do not reflect the character or quality of the original structure.

Historic, Aesthetic, and Communal Significance

The village is characterised by a blend of detached homes, terraced cottages, and sensitively converted farm buildings. Despite gradual infill over the centuries, much of the original open layout—established around 1300—remains visible. The surrounding countryside flows into the village at several points, offering picturesque outward views and preserving the area’s historic rural feel.

Immediately west of No. 1 sits a small development of six detached homes built on former pastoral land once used for grazing cattle, horses, and sheep.

Evidential Value

Research carried out using local historical society archives uncovered a rich history of activity tied to the property curtilage. Over time, it has served a variety of purposes:

an office for a wood yard
a base for a funeral service
a milk distribution point for the village
a booking office for local bus and coach services

Today, however, the space remains unused and in declining condition.

The Proposal

In early 2025, we were appointed to secure the necessary consents to refurbish the outbuilding, allowing it to function as a modern work‑from‑home space. The project also includes replacing deteriorating timber windows and doors.

The principal considerations relate to:

the impact of the proposals on the setting of the listed cottage and neighbouring heritage assets, and
the effect on the architectural and historic character of the statutorily protected property.

Although renovating the outbuilding involves removing some historic material—resulting in what is defined as “less than substantial harm”—the lean‑to lobby and bay window are of limited architectural value. Their materials, detailing and overall design do not match the quality of the earlier building.

Our proposal therefore replaces these later additions with new elements that more closely reflect the original fabric. This approach enhances the building’s visual harmony without compromising its historical intent or significance.

Guidance Consulted

Historic England Publications
National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 2021
Historic Environment Records (HER)
Local Planning Authority (LPA) / Conservation Officer

Thinking About Making Changes to a Listed Property?

If you’re considering alterations to a listed building or an outbuilding within its curtilage, we’d be delighted to help. Navigating heritage constraints, planning policy and conservation requirements can be complex, but with the right guidance, sensitive and successful improvements are absolutely achievable. Whether you’re exploring a small repair, a retrofit upgrade or a more ambitious adaptation, feel free to get in touch—we’re always happy to discuss your ideas and advise on the best route forward.