Former Cannock Chase smokehouse to become holiday let
A former smokehouse is set to become a place to stay for visitors holidaying in Cannock Chase.
The 19th century building, which is near the junction of Stafford Brook Road and Penkridge Bank Road on the outskirts of Rugeley, was once in an area of smallholding, before the Chase became home to a military training camp during the First World War.
In 2014 consent was granted for alterations to the former smokehouse so it could be used as a playroom. But now it is set to welcome tourists wanting to stay in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), after Cannock Chase Council granted permission for it to be used as a one bedroom holiday let.
Not everyone has welcomed the change of use however. A local resident objected to the application.
She said: “Penkridge Bank Road is very busy at this junction with the increased extra traffic of lorries going backward and forwards to the quarry.
“I feel this would set a precedent for future applications if passed. I also feel it would infringe on the safety and privacy of my property and the character of the area.”
Brindley Heath Parish Council also raised “strong objections”.
Historical
A letter submitted to Cannock Chase Council said: “Reuse of the building as a holiday let will constitute inappropriate development in the Green Belt. Its impact will be harmful to the openness of the Green Belt.
“The smokehouse is an important historical building within the county and members consider that it has already been spoiled, particularly with the addition of UPVC windows. They would like to see it carefully preserved for uses connected with the main dwelling only, not occupied as a holiday let.”
The AONB Unit raised no objections to the latest application. The proposed holiday let will be on the same road as the Silver Trees holiday park.
And applicant Paul Richardson told Wednesday’s planning committee meeting that he had received support from cycle hire companies and the local pub.
He said: “It was built in 1845 and used as a traditional smokehouse to cure products. In 2013 the previous owners sought permission to convert the smokehouse into a playroom.
“It has been myself and my wife’s intention to restore the original structure and transform it into a small tasteful holiday let in keeping with the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It will create two part time jobs for myself and my wife and support tourism.
“It will make a positive contribution.”
