Plans to convert redundant barns behind former village post office into homes come under fire from neighbours

The land and barns were once associated with a former post office and shop which was given permission to be converted into a three-bedroom home in December 2023.

The pair of barns are accessed via a private driveway adjacent to the former post office, and separated from one another by a tarmacked area.

"The application seeks to create two comfortably-sized and naturally bright one-bedroom residential dwellings by utilising the existing footprint, massing and internal area of each of the barns. No additions to either of the barns are proposed," the design and access statement reads.

"The proposed designs will seek to minimise the impact on the external appearance of the barns to maintain their existing architectural character and aesthetic while reconfiguring the internal layouts to create suitable and comfortable residential accommodation."

The plans also state that four parking spaces would be created to the rear of the barns, with access maintained via the private driveway.

But the proposal hasn't gone down well with some neighbours - who argue that the village has "had enough".

"We just don’t have the room for more houses be it one or two," wrote Horsehay resident Mrs Cain. "This village and its people have had enough problems with housing and increased traffic. For the extra housing we will be under a lot of physical and mental challenges."

Mr Ingram agreed: "No consideration has been taken towards the wellbeing of neighbours and the infrastructure of the village; the village does not need increased housing. This is a village and should remain a village."

The application is open for consultation until Monday, January 6 and the full plans can be found online on Telford & Wrekin Council's planning portal using reference number: TWC/2024/0697.