PLANS to convert a former menage that had been used for an equine business into a two-bedroom home in Whitchurch, have been submitted to Herefordshire planners.

The Losito Stud has been used for over 15 years as a commercial equine business but now that the owner has retired, the brownfield site is now underutilised.

This proposed dwelling which qualifies as a self-build project will be built to the highest standard by removing the menage and replacing it will a well-designed agricultural house with permaculture landscaping.

A submission has been made a new two-bedroomed dwelling to be created by utilising one of stud’s redundant buildings.

The applicant’s agent Kathy Bird said that given its location and context, the site is considered to represent an appropriate and sustainable location for residential development and added: “The proposal would contribute to local housing supply, help address the current shortfall in deliverable sites, and would integrate with the existing settlement pattern without causing undue harm to the character of the area.”

The site is currently subject to a commercial use, comprising of several large barns and one dwelling with no conditions tied to the commercial business.

The agent pointed out that although the proposal would change the site to a different and residential character, the design of the building would ensure that it did not present itself as a nondescript suburban addition to the landscape.

“Landscaping would ensure the proposal can assimilate into the locality by softening and obscuring buildings to preserve its boarder verdant feel,” She added.

“Consequently, the proposal would not present as a persistent and dominant feature out of keeping with the landscape.

Ms Bird said in conclusion that the proposal would preserve the character and appearance of the area and added: “While the site lies outside the formal settlement boundary, it is well-related to the existing settlement and capable of supporting residential development.

“Replacing the commercial menage with an agricultural style dwelling and landscaping would have a neutral effect, preserving the natural beauty of the area.

“Moreover, the form and arrangement of the building would be analogous of barn style building reflective of the site’s rural location, and consistent with other examples of rural buildings in the area.”

Comments on the application, number P261249/F can be made via Herefordshire Council’s planning portal until Thursday, June 25. For more information about planning applications in your area visit publicnoticeportal.uk.

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