Wellness and events venue at Hemingford Park, Hemingford Abbots

“The application seeks planning permission for the Change of use from dwelling (Use Class C3) & agricultural land to a wellness centre (Class E) and wedding and events venue (Sui Generis) with guest sleeping accommodation and parking.”

“The proposed development at Hemingford Park entails a change of use to enable the estate to function as a wedding venue and wellness centre. This will create a viable and sustainable future for the estate by diversifying its use and enhancing public access and enjoyment of its heritage assets.”

“Hemingford Park Hall is a Grade ll* Listed private residence situated within generous grounds to the south-west of Hemingford Abbots and within the Hemingfords Conservation Area (CA). Outside of the residential curtilage of Hemingford Park Hall, the parkland is in agricultural use. Within the residential curtilage, there is a pool/spa building and various other ancillary structures – some of which are already in use as short term visitor accommodation.”

“The Hall and associated contemporary buildings are attributed to the architect Decimus Burton and originally constructed in c1843 for the Reverend James Linton. The buildings, garden and Parkland, within which they are located are within the designated Hemingford Abbots Conservation area.”

“0500222FUL - Erection of an agricultural building for livestock (APPROVED) • 1400578FUL - Original floor levels re introduced on ground floor of main house. Demolition of shed at rear of the property. Construction of a glazed link to run between the kitchen of the main house to a newly constructed, submerged pool house with sliding glass roof. Pool house will consist of two storeys with swimming pool and associated spa facilities.”

“(APPEALED AGAINST NON- DETERMINATION, APPEAL WITHDRAWN) • 23/01770/LBC & 23/01764/FUL - Change of use of pool building and garden area to use for events and a commercial spa and change of use to agricultural track and hard standing for agricultural and commercial use associated with use of the pool house. (WITHDRAWN) • 24/01218/P3MPA - Change of use of an agricultural building to hotel use (C1).”

“It is also considered that the proposal is acceptable in regard to the transport, highways (including highway safety), odour, noise, flood risk, biodiversity and trees.”

“Against that, there are several benefits to consider. Regarding the heritage benefits, the site is currently within private ownership (residential and agricultural) and the proposed change of use would increase public access to site due to its commercial operation which would better reveal the significance of the heritage assets for the enjoyment of the public.”

“Cambridgeshire County Council Highway Authority – No objection subject to conditions.”

“Huntingdonshire District Council Environmental Health Officer – No objection subject to condition…”

“Letters of objection were received from 52 local residents/neighbouring properties during the course of the application. The concerns raised have been summarised below: • The proposal would harm the historic setting through increased traffic, noise, lighting, and commercial activity • Impact of the track upon the ridge and furrow, setting of the Listed Building and Conservation Area • Weddings will be late spring to early autumn resulting in most events taking place…”

“Letters of support were received from a total of 61 residents (comprising of local businesses, local residents/neighbouring properties and residents from nearby villages/towns etc). The support raised have been summarised below: • Long term use of heritage assets • New commercial enterprise • Economic benefits for the local area in terms of employment and spending 7. ASSESSMENT”

“Following receipt of further information relating to the application, it was…”