Plans to develop land around a Grade II-listed building on the south-western edge of Carlisle have been welcomed.

An application by County Durham-based ESH Developments to build 29 properties on the land around Suttle House, on Wigton Road, have been given the go-ahead by Carlisle City Council.

Listed building consent had previously been granted by members of the council’s planning committee, enabling the building to be demolished. It has been left in a dilapidated state after being ravaged by a fire in March 2015.

After permission to demolish the building was granted, Historic England wrote to the city council, expressing concern that Suttle House, which first appeared on a map of Carlisle in 1746, could be knocked down.

A new application has now been submitted to refurbish the building and incorporate it within the wider development.

The future of the Georgian property had remained uncertain for some time, with an application to build 27 houses and 14 flats refused in August 2006, although it was later granted following an appeal in February 2007.

Work to develop the area began, but the plug was pulled following the downturn in the housing market in 2008.

The site falls within Yewdale ward, which is represented by city councillor Steven Bowditch.

Commenting on the plans for 29 homes being approved, he said: "I'm in favour of the development.


Steven Bowditch "It's been a problem for many years and local residents have become fed up with it.

"It's been stood empty for a number of years now and I'm glad that it's going to be developed."

A design, heritage and access statement submitted by ESH Developments regarding the refurbishment states: "It is the applicant's intention to refurbish the existing listed building and maintain its original use as a single dwelling.

"Maintaining the use of the building as a single dwelling in this way will minimise any alterations required on fabric of the original building."