Fears over plans for former farmhouse described as 'part of what little history we have left in Rushden'

Concerns have been raised about the proposed redevelopment of a former farmhouse described as 'part of what little history we have left in Rushden.'

CC Properties To Buy has applied for permission to demolish the existing residential dwelling and build four townhouse dwellings with parking at 23 High Street South, Rushden.

The site is on the opposite side of the road to the High Street South entrance to Hall Park.

Documents submitted as part of the application state: "The site is a small parcel of existing residential land crying out for development.

"The development offers the opportunity for four semi-detached dwellings compliant to National Design Space Standards with private garden spaces, this relates to the existing context and thoughtfully considered to once again provide a desirable place to live."

The plans comprise of four 2.5 storey dwellings which would be a mix of three and four bed.

If approved, the development would be two blocks of semi-detached buildings with private gardens to the rear and parking to the front and side.

The design and access statement says the proposed development would provide local jobs through the construction stage and provide affordable housing to the community.

However, not everyone seems happy with the plans.

An objection posted online as part of the planning application says: "This fine farmhouse building is part of what little history we have left in Rushden.

"It's one of Rushden's best known domestic buildings and should be preserved as such.

"It's extremely distressing to see the current owner deliberately destroying this building.

"I understand the area this building is located in is a conservation area.

"With this in mind this is one of the most important buildings located within this area and should be preserved to show future generations how the town grew from a small village to a bustling town."

Numerous comments have also been made on social media about the possible loss of the former farmhouse, including one saying what a waste of a beautiful house and others calling for it to be renovated rather than knocked down.

For more information about the application, which will be considered by East Northants Council, or to comment on the application, search for 20/01467/FUL on the planning page of the authority's website.

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