The Pump House Bridgerule Devon

During early 2009 my wife and I acquired the Bridgerule Service Reservoir from South West Water at public auction in Barnstaple. As we live close by we were concerned as to what might happen to it and the impact on the surrounding area. The site is located at the top of a hill and is highly visible to several of our fellow villagers.

After much deliberation we decided to embark on a major project to convert the reservoir structure into an eco-friendly residential dwelling in which to live and become our new home.

Our goal is to create a unique dwelling that is virtually invisible and so from the public’s perception minimal change to the current views. The property should be an asset to local housing stock and not an unoccupied white elephant!

We are under no illusion as to the obstacles we face to see this project through to its conclusion. However, we have been amazed at the support we have received so far from our neighbours, local politicians and the local business community.

Planning is a major issue as local and national government policy leans toward economic/business use first! However, Planning Policy Statement 4 does address the fact that some buildings and locations require special consideration. It says: EC12.1 Re-use of buildings in the countryside for economic development purposes will usually be preferable, but residential conversions may be more appropriate in some locations and for some types of building.

Meanwhile the new government seek to give more power to local communities with regard to planning matters.

Please keep watch as this website is going to updated regularly…

Derek, Diane and Geoffrey

Email: derek.hilleard(at)tiscali.co.uk

Our Architectural Designers: Caves To Castles Ltd

Planning Consultants: GM Planning Services

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