Landmark listed Much Wenlock building could be brought back to use with housing scheme

Pinefield in Much Wenlock is a grade two listed building, which has been a cause of much concern for residents after being allowed to fall into disrepair.

But it could now be restored, after councillors approved plans for three homes to the rear of the property, with the condition that they cannot be occupied until work is completed to repair Pinefield.

The plans for land north of Victoria Road, behind Pinefield, at 40 High Street, have received support from Much Wenlock Town Council, Shropshire Councillor David Turner and Much Wenlock Civic Society, who all say it is a good opportunity for the historic building to be brought back to life.

At a meeting of Shropshire Council's South planning committee on Tuesday, members heard that from both Councillor Turner and town councillor Milner Whitehead, that the future of Pinefield has been a source of much concern for local residents.

Many members of the committee, also said they had watched the building fall into disrepair.

Councillor Whitehead said: "The building is an eyesore, and it is an issue that has come up time and time again.

"Hopefully we will be able to see this lovely old house restored.

Councillor Turner, who is also vice-chairman of the committee, said: "I have lived in Much Wenlock for many years and I have never seen it occupied.

"There is intense public interest."

Much Wenlock Civic Society have said the dilapidated condition of the building is "shameful to all who care about heritage."

As part of the plans, which were recommended for approval by officers, a condition was written in that the work to ensure that basic repairs to bring Pinefields up to standard would be done before the new homes are occupied.

Planning officer Richard Fortune said that if that proves difficult for the applicant, a last resort would enable the council to do the work and reclaim the costs afterwards.

The new property would involve a home with a garage, repairs to an existing outbuilding and two further semi-detached dwellings with an attached three-bay garage.

Councillor Gwilym Butler said: "I see no problem with the development as a whole, it is a good solution to what we need to get.

"It would be great to see the building back in proper use.

"It could be an asset to Much Wenlock."

Councillor Andy Boddington said: "My background is in heritage and this is one of the best schemes I have seen for many, many years for recovery."

The plans were unanimously approved by members and work on the development must begin within three years.