Victorian house in picturesque Sheffield valley saved from demolition

Developers were hoping to bulldoze Ash House at 499 Loxley Road and replace it with two, new five-bedroomed homes.

But councillors went against their own planning officers’ recommendation and rejected the scheme, saying it would be an over-development, out of scale and would harm the character of the area.

Around 35 residents, along with Bradfield Parish Council, Loxley Valley Protection Society, the Green Party and Sheffield Hallam MP Olivia Blake had objected.

They said the traditional stone property, dating back to 1885, has patterns of an ancient settlement and allows passers-by to pause and gaze at the beautiful views of the Loxley Valley.

They argued the new homes would block that view completely, overshadow neighbouring properties and cause parking problems.

A spokesman on behalf of Olivia Blake MP told the meeting: “A number of constituents have asked us to object.

“The space between this house offers a view to the river and green spaces that make Loxley such a great area to live in. This would completely obscure that view.”

Councillors were completely united in rejecting the plans. Coun Pete Rippon said: “To demolish this house would be a criminal act and to put two properties on that site would be an overdevelopment and not in keeping with the character of the area.”

Coun Andrew Sangar added: “This stone building adds to the character of Loxley with beautiful views down the Valley and this is developers being greedy.”