Solihull planners deliver verdict on plans to save Dickens Heath farm's abandoned 18th-century granary
A late 18th century abandoned granary on a village farm will now become a two bedroom home after Solihull planners gave approval.
Applicant Kay Anderson originally applied for listed building consent to convert the Grade II Listed building on Braggs Farm in May.
A design and heritage statement included with the application said: “The conversion of the granary into a residential dwelling has been designed sensitively to work in harmony with the existing architecture.
“A structural survey was carried out and, though it is not in current use, the building is structurally sound, meaning any alterations or additions to the building will not change the structural integrity of the granary.
“Photos show the barn is falling further into disrepair from not having a current and active use.
“By converting the granary the weatherboard can be repaired and repainted, the roof can be repaired, the brickwork and pointing can be cleaned and touched up.
“The inside can be cleared and cleaned, insulating from the inside so not to change the outside of the building.”
The applicant proposed the Dickens Heath building would have a living room and kitchen on the ground floor, and two bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor.
The applicant also highlighted two applications to convert the building into a home were refused by planners in 1982.
“The granary has no use as its former function and is currently storing old machinery items which are no longer needed,” the applicant said.
“If history repeats itself the building will fall into further disrepair and in future require even further works to preserve and restore to a liveable condition.
“The application should be positively received by the local authority and allow this once beautiful building to be given a new use and keep its important standing in the community and local surroundings.”
During a public consultation no objections were raised.
And in a report Solihull Council officers wrote: “The proposal has been assessed by the local planning authority’s heritage officer and raises no objection.
“The proposal will not have a harmful impact upon designated heritage assets.”
On September 19 officer Mark Andrews, the authority’s head of planning, design and engagement services, granted listed building consent subject to conditions.
The application is still available to view on the council’s website by searching for PL/2025/00925/LBC at https://publicaccess.solihull.gov.uk/online-applications.
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