Stately-home in Swindon returning after office conversion
A stately home in south Swindon originally converted into offices in the 70s can be turned back into a mansion for one well-to-do family.
Last updated 23rd Jun 2021
Developer City and County Burderop Ltd has been given permission by borough council planners to reconvert the Grade II-listed 17th Century manor house at Burderop Park near Chiseldon back into a single home.
The company’s plan is to convert the main house including its listed outbuildings, called the Tudor wing and North wing, into one house with an enclosed swimming pool.
The company was previously given permission in 2017 to convert the house into 25 flats, with permission for another 52 houses, later increased to 60, in the grounds.
It told planners at Euclid Street the flats scheme was no longer economically viable.
But it said the main thrust of its new proposal, to return the mansion to its original use was a rare opportunity as so often viability concerns dictate such houses are split into smaller units.
“This is the optimum viable use and a major heritage benefit, especially to the historic and architectural values of the building.
The company, based in Stansted, Essex will also be able to make changes to other buildings on the estate in a departure from its original planning permission.
It wants to convert the Grade II listed stable block into another single house rather than the three apartments in its original plans.
The cottage and restaurant building, which is also listed, can be turned into 10 flats instead of seven and it will keep the bothy in the walled garden on the estate – again a listed building- as a single house.
The new plan is supported by Chiseldon Parish Council, and the borough council’s planning report said: “The conversion is in keeping with the original character of the building and enhances the fabric and character of adjacent buildings and the surrounding landscape.
The house was constructed in the early 17th century around a courtyard. It was turned into a three-storey square house with bay windows during the18th century.
It was converted to offices in the 70s and a modern office complex was built just a few yards away to the west of the mansion.