RESIDENTS  have come out in force to oppose a “ridiculous” planning application to build a dwelling in the “oldest part of Northleach”.

Northleach Town Council also voted to oppose the plans to build a double-fronted, four bedroom house in Mill End, Northleach - which dates to the 15th century - and have written to Cotswold District Council planning department.

During this month’s town council meeting Tim Hamilton, of Mill End, outlined his objections to the build.

The house, he said, would overshadow three gardens, provide views into bedrooms of neighbouring properties, and would only add to “overdevelopment” in the area.

He also said that the house was of a disproportionate scale at three times the width of the neighbouring gardens.

He said: “This planning application fails to give a full picture: it portrays a neglected plot at the end of a driveway.

“In reality the proposal represents the over-development of The Green’s oldest burgage plot – dating to the 15th century.

“Just centimetres away from neighbouring listed walls, it severely impacts residential amenities, robbing neighbours of light and privacy.

“In full view of the public on the King George fields, it also erodes the character and nature of this historic and tranquil area, the oldest part of Northleach, an area of outstanding scenic beauty.”

An old Cotswold District Council document unearthed by the Northleach Historical Society states: “Further housing development or changes of use on the remaining burbage plots would seriously harm the character and appearance of the town.”

Goldings Chartered Building Surveyors and Architectural Consultants are dealing with the planning application for client Bill Hicks.

They said that the house will be an asset to the area.

Owner Eric Goldings said: “All we have submitted is a traditional house, in keeping with the Cotswold vernacular and within the development boundaries.”

“There has been other development in adjoining gardens so it is not a new thing for the area.

He also said that should Northleach Town Council or the planning officer not like the design then he and his client would work with them.

Adding: “We are fully aware of the importance of burgage plots in Northleach, the proposal makes no alteration to the ancient burgage plot boundary, nor introduces new boundaries and by using the unused plot, these boundary walls would be repaired and maintained for the future.”