Local News · Corsham
Historic Lacock stables set for residential conversion after redesign
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Plans to transform a historic stable block at Reybridge Farm into a three-bedroom home have been approved by Wiltshire Council following a successful revision of the scheme.
A historic stable building in the heart of the Wiltshire countryside is set to be converted into a new family home after receiving the backing of planning officials. Wiltshire Council has granted approval for the transformation of the stable block at Reybridge Farm, situated near the picturesque and tourist-famed village of Lacock.
This latest approval marks a significant turn for the site, following an earlier proposal for a three-bedroom property that was refused by the council in November 2024. That initial application was later dismissed at appeal, with a planning inspector noting that proposed extensions threatened the historic character of the structure, despite agreeing that the building was suitable for conversion.
The successful proposal focuses on the existing footprint, stripping away the extensions that previously caused concern. Heritage experts have identified the building as a mid-19th century construction, originally serving as an open-sided cowshed before being adapted into stables during the 1980s. The site is considered curtilage listed due to its proximity to the Grade II-listed Reybridge House.
Under the approved scheme, the development aims to preserve the site's architectural heritage. Plans include the retention and repair of original timber posts, king-post roof structures, and historic masonry. The project will also involve the removal of modern breezeblock infills added during the 20th century. Internally, the redesign now exposes end gable walls, a move that the council's conservation officer acknowledged provides a genuine heritage benefit to the building.
When completed, the new dwelling will feature an open-plan kitchen and living area, three bedrooms, and a home office. Sustainable additions such as solar panels and an electric vehicle charging point have been integrated into the plans to bring the historic structure into modern use.
The project received support from Lacock Parish Council, and highway authorities raised no objections to the proposed three-car parking provision. Planning officers concluded that the scheme secures the long-term future of the historic building while respecting its setting within the conservation-sensitive area of Lacock, a village renowned for its National Trust ownership and its popularity as a filming location for major period dramas and fantasy productions.
Source: Gazette & Herald — Corsham · View original