Residents raise objections to plans to bulldoze Victorian Sheffield home to make way for two new houses

Bradfield Parish Council, Loxley Valley Protection Society and a number of local residents are objecting to plans to bulldoze Ash House at 499 Loxley Road and replace it with two new houses.

The traditional stone property, believed to be Victorian but unlisted, would be replaced with two, five-bedroomed homes.

Bradfield Parish Council says the design of the development is not in keeping with the area.

It says the layout and density of buildings are unacceptable, would overshadow neighbours and damage nature and conservation.

Loxley Valley Protection Society has also lodged an objection. In a report, planning officers say: “They set out that the existing property adds significantly to the character and appearance of the old part of Loxley and should not be demolished.

“The property’s unusual orientation, harks back to ancient settlement patterns, adds to its charm, and the opportunity to sneak a view into the Loxley Valley over the cottage garden. The development would harm these views.

“It would not harmonise with existing properties and would be an overdevelopment with all greenery removed from the front.”

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There have also been 34 representations from local residents and concerns the houses are too big, out of character and would cause parking problems.

One neighbour says the property dates back to 1885 and represents a particular style of house that gives Loxley its character. They say the green spaces between the houses and the views of the valley are also important.

Another resident claims a mature ash tree, which gave the cottage its name, has already been felled.

But officers are recommending councillors approve the development and say: “It is within a housing area, surrounded by other residential properties and would not have a harmful impact upon the character and appearance of the area.

“It would not give rise to unacceptable levels of overlooking or overshadowing and would raise no serious highway safety concerns.”

Councillors will decide at a meeting on Tuesday, January 14.