The owner of Rode Hall has submitted plans for a derelict building to be converted into a retail bakery, as well as other light industrial units.
Sir Randle Baker Wilbraham has applied to Cheshire East Council for a full planning application for the demolition of the former smithy and associated dwelling and outbuildings at The Smithy, Knutsford Road, Rode Heath.
The proposals include the removal of the car workshop and the construction of a development comprising a bakery and two flexible retail units, along with on-site parking facilities.
The new retail development would include the bakery with inside and outside seating, a central courtyard and a frontage seating area.
The site access on Knutsford Road, comprising a forecourt with a dropped kerb, would be replaced by a new junction.
The survey on the existing property said it was “badly neglected” and in “very poor order”.
A report said: “Major works would be required to make the dwelling safe and fit for habitation. The same comment applies to the outbuildings and the Smithy building.
“(Repair) costs are likely to be significant — probably in excess of £270,000 and expenditure approaching £375,000 to fully restore the property.
“It would undoubtedly be more cost-effective to demolish and rebuild. Rebuilding would allow construction to meet current efficiency standards. It would also allow a more functional layout better suited to modern living requirements.”
The property comprises a detached two-storey dwelling with associated outbuildings (detached garage and storage building). There is also a detached former smithy building that is used as a workshop for vehicle repairs.
The dwelling is deemed “not habitable” and in a “severely dilapidated state”.
The dwelling, privy and smithy buildings are believed to be contemporary and possibly date from the early to mid-1800s.
The planning reference is 25/3712/FUL.
The consultation end date is 31st October.
