Office conversion to dwelling at 46A Market Square, Witney

“The application site relates to an outbuilding known as Long Barn located to the rear, and within the curtilage of no.46 Market Square, Witney, a Grade II listed building (list entry 1213490). No. 46 was formerly known as Bull Inn and dates from early-mid C18 with C19 alterations. The Bull Inn stated to…”

“21/03643/FUL- Demolition of existing outbuilding and rebuild to create a one and half storey three bedroom house with associated amenity area and two car parking spaces. (Amended)- Refused…”

“Members may recall the above applications, as they were refused at the Lowlands Planning Sub Committee on 19th April 2022 and 16th January 2023. This application proposes a scheme that is not dissimilar to the previous refusal in 2023. The key difference being the addition of a single storey glazed link from the historic Long Barn into the 2 storey side extension element of the proposal, thus breaking up the new built form within the courtyard area.”

“The proposed alterations and extensions will result in a substantial increase to the buildings scale in terms of its footprint, height and volume, its existing linear plan form is also to be changed and the character of the building will be largely lost by the associated domestication such as the additional windows, doors and rooflights, as a result of the use change.”

“Your Officers have identified harm to the grade II curtilage listed Long Barn, the setting and appearance of the principal grade II listed building, neighbouring listed buildings. This harm is considered to be towards the higher end of 'less than substantial'.”

“Conservation And Design Officer Objection raised in relation to the impact of the new extension and its detrimental impact on the listed heritage asset.”

“Parish Council Witney Town Council does not object to this application in principle. Members are supportive of the introduction of residential use in this location as they feel it would be a positive contribution to the area. However, given the listed building status, Members request that Witney Town Council be re-consulted should the opinion of the Conservation/ Heritage Officer not concur.”

“No third party representations have been received.”

“Members asked a number of questions for clarification purposes, following which agreement was reached.”

“RESOLVED: That the application be refused, in line with the officer`s recommendation. Applications Determined under Delegated Powers The applications determined under delegated powers were presented to Members.”

“By reason of the scale, design and form of the proposed alterations and extensions needed to create the proposed dwelling, the proposal will have a harmful impact on the significance, character, appearance and setting of Long Barn, a grade II curtilage listed building, the setting, character and views out from the principal listing building, 46 Market Square.”