1980s conservatory to be replaced with traditional orangery at Stafford hall

A 1980s-style conservatory built on the side of a Grade II listed country house without planning permission is now set to be replaced with a more traditional-looking orangery after councillors gave plans the go ahead.

Stafford Borough Council’s planning officers wanted to turn down proposals for Loynton Hall, near Gnosall, because the orangery’s siting would obscure an architecturally significant feature of the historic building.

The council’s planning committee disagreed with the recommendation though and unanimously backed the application at its meeting on Wednesday, following a visit to the site.

Loynton Hall dates back to the 18th century, but the white uPVC conservatory is believed to have been built some time between 1991 and 2012.

The current owners of the house, who bought it in 2017, have been restoring the property to its former glory and their plans include replacing the current conservatory with a hardwood orangery.

Officers had no objections to the orangery’s design or the principle of extending the house. Their concerns related to the location of the orangery, the council’s planning committee heard.

Ward councillor Mike Smith said: “I believe the conservation officer’s notes suggest they were looking at the scene 150 years ago, when Lord and Lady Loynton lived there.

“Andrew Kay and his family live there in the 21st century and he wants a home suitable for a modern family. We should be thanking him for the work he has done to restore this property.

“This decision comes down to one thing – does that conservatory harm that door or does it not?”

Councillor Smith also spoke of the proposal’s benefits in tackling climate change.

Removing an extension next to the single-glazed French doors could make the building less energy-efficient and increase carbon emissions – and the council is currently working towards becoming carbon neutral by 2040.

Committee member Councillor Marnie Phillips said: “I think the design improves what’s there. I don’t think moving that conservatory along is going to enhance the way that house would function.”

Councillor Andrew Harp added: “It’s putting right a wrong that has been done previously. I think it is a good way of doing it.”