Approval is needed for plans to convert a barn and demolish buildings on an Allerdale farm, making way for a residential dwelling and garage.

Allerdale Borough Council has received an application for change of use planning permission to convert a redundant agricultural stone barn into one residential dwelling and demolish sub-standard structurally unsound hay barn, brick stables and bungalow.

Stables and a redundant paddock will be changed into a residential garage.

The application has been submitted by John Jefferson for Stank End Farm in Abbeytown, Wigton.

In the Planning Statement, supported by H&H Land Estates as the agent, Mr Jefferson said: “The scale of development is proportionate and appropriate to the location.

“The application relates to traditional barns forming an L shape that is already an established feature within the landscape.”

The impact on wildlife has been taken into account as plans were drawn up.

The statement said: “The site is described as having a medium status in the ecology of the barn owl, other bird and bat populations.

“In response, the proposed mitigation and enhancement involves the provision of: bat boxes and nest boxes for smaller birds in the surrounding trees; and a bat loft in the barn or new garage. This work can be the subject of a condition.”

They said that the new residential property will enjoy a private garden to the rear.

“The courtyard and parking area to the front of the property will enjoy an appropriate level of overlooking for security.”

Mr Jefferson and the agent added that the development will benefit the community by making use of disused agricultural buildings.

They said: “In its own modest way, it will help to support the vitality of the local community.

“The scale of the development proposed is appropriate. The footprint of the existing buildings will be reduced and the appearance of the buildings in views from the countryside will be improved.”

The public can view and comment on all applications submitted to the council for approval.

To view the planning applications submitted for Allerdale, visit: https://allerdalebc.force.com/pr/s/be-home