Council reject plans to demolish historic Sheffield cottage for modern housing

Bramhall Blenkharn, architects, planned to demolish Bennett Cottage, Mayfield Road, Mayfield Valley, and build a bigger and more modern house in its place.

During a council meeting to discuss the proposals, Roland Barton, on behalf of the applicant, said: “While only a replacement dwelling, the application has generated a level of objections but also some level of support.

“However the centre of the proposal is a desire for a long time resident of the valley to continue living within the area with their family but in a sustainable and better suited property to their needs.”

But councillors on the planning and highways committee narrowly voted to block the plans.

Six members voted against, five for and two abstained.

Coun Andrew Sangar, who voted against, said: “Mayfield Valley is one of the jewels in Sheffield’s crown - it’s used by lots of people for walking, cycling and running.

“I believe this development is out of keeping with the special character of the area and I believe it’s detrimental to the openness of the green belt and the settings of the listed buildings.

“The loss of the traditional buildings would be significant and would harm the character of the Mayfield Valley and would harm the special architectural and historic interest of the setting."

Coun Bob McCann, who also voted against, said: “I’m not very keen on contemporary architecture, I'm very much a traditionalist.

“I think this would be a blot on the landscape of a very beautiful area and I don’t feel I can support this application.”

Coun Peter Price, who voted to support the plans, said: “I accept Mayfield is a jewel in Sheffield’s crown, but don’t accept this building will make any difference.

“It will have a green roof and the cruck is not there anymore.

“It’s difficult, but on balance I’m going to support the recommendation to approve."

The reasons agreed for refusal were that it would have a negative impact on the openness of the green belt and the character of the area.

Ahead of the meeting, about 90 people wrote to the council to object, while about 35 wrote in support.

Those objecting included Coun Douglas Johnson, leader of the Sheffield Green Party, Hallamshire Historic Buildings, Sheffield Conservation Advisory Group, Sheffield Ramblers, Friends of Porter Valley and CPRE South Yorkshire.

Hallamshire Historic Buildings estimate the cottage was built in the 17th or 18th Century and the barn was built about 1130-1300.

Historic England said they previously considered adding the site to the list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest but after assessment the secretary of state for culture, media and sport decided not to.

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