PLANS to convert and extend a former cider press stone bothy in Symonds Yat West into a one-bedroom home have been submitted to Herefordshire planners.

Situated within a deep valley off Sawpitts Lane, the proposal is to extend and convert the existing shelter into a small residential dwelling, with associated parking and turning area.

The proposals state there would be a single storey extension to the rear of the existing building which is located 370m from the A40.

The owner has submitted the application on the basis that the proposal is a ‘self-build’ project compliant with the latest regulations.

The agent, HDP Architecture of Ross-on-Wye, states that in order to extend the existing structure, approximately 200m sq of earth will need to be excavated.

The site has a natural fall of at least 12m from the rear boundary to the roadside, which “allows for the effective redistribution of the excavated material without the risk of creating surface water run-off issues”.

Currently, the front west elevation is constructed from traditional stone which has a timber framed centrally located single access door, which is in a state of disrepair as well as an upper centrally located, timber hay door.

There is a metal frame, glazed window mounted on top of the low-level wall which is supported by a painted timber tongue and groove wall and the roof timbers of the lean-to which is becoming overgrown with ivy growth.

During the internal examination of the bothy, very old bat droppings in very low numbers were identified.

The agent admits that because of the historic use of bats being found within the building, mitigation and other enhancements will need to be undertaken.

Comments on the application, number P262246/F, can be made via Herefordshire Council’s planning portal by Friday, September 18.

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