PLANS to convert a historic north Pembrokeshire former farm milk parlour and grain store, which is in danger of falling to ruin, to a home have been given the go-ahead.
In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Mr and Mrs Humphrey, through agent Wyn Harries MRICS, sought permission for the conversion of an agricultural barn into a three-bed dwelling at Maes y Felin, Bridell.
A supporting statement said: “Maes y Felin is located in the open countryside within Pembrokeshire County Council. It is accessible directly south of Cardigan, off the A487 turn towards St Davids Church, Bridell. The building forms part of a range of outbuildings associated with the Grade-II-listed farmhouse Maes Y Felin, and Dyfed Riding Centre business.
“The building is located centrally within the yard. It is a two-storey building, with the former milk parlour and grain store on the ground floor, with general loft space above. It is currently used for general storage.”
It added: “Externally, the building’s roof will be raised with a level ridgeline. All existing openings will be retained. Equally, the façade will be retained with much of the stone being repointed to safeguard the character of the original building.
“This proposal is motivated by a recognised need to improve the barn structure as the roof has begun to collapse and without immediate action, the building could degrade past being able to be converted.”
It went on to say: “The retention of key openings on the south elevation such as the arched cart access, decorative arch stone lintels as well as the majority of the original stonework will help to preserve the traditional character of the agricultural shed.
“However, the building needs to be improved as it is currently falling to ruin. Therefore, renewed fenestration, a new slate roof, and the removal of the concrete block lean-to will introduce a welcome upgrade.”
An officer report recommending approval said Heneb, The Trust for Welsh Archaeology have confirmed that the stone barn subject to the conversion to a dwelling is recorded on the 1889 1st edition Ordnance Survey map as a component of Maes-y-Felin farmstead, which is considered to be of historical interest.
The application was conditionally approved by county planners.
