Housing plans put forward to help ‘stabilise structure and preserve existence’ of ancient monument

A residential development could help preserve an ancient monument in Ruabon if planning approval is given the go ahead.

In plans submitted to Wrexham Council it has been proposed that 18 dwellings are built at Wynnstay Yard in Ruabon, which the applicants say will allow for remedial works on the neighbouring The Walker Fan House to take place. It is also proposed the existing bungalow on the site is demolished.

If approved the development would consists of six, one bedroom flat / maisonettes and twelve, two bedroom flat / maisonettes .

Details about the design of the properties are provided within the application’s design and access statement, which explains that the proposals consist of two separate apartment blocks – which have been influenced by the Walker Fan House.

The properties would be designed to have an “industrial appearance” to fit in with the surrounding location and that the roofs would be gable clad in Welsh natural slate.

26 parking spaces will also be provided for the properties.

A large section of the application also proposes remedial works to The Walker Fan House, which is to be retained as part of the development.

The property and its associated buildings were built in 1902 to “ventilate the Wynnstay Colliery which operated between 1856 to 1927.” However the building is now described as being in a “dilapidated state” due to the growth of vegetation which has damaged the existing structure.

Details within the application’s design and access statement it is noted: “The importance of The Walker Fan House has been recognised. The structure is listed as an ancient monument. The outset of this proposal was to stabilise the structure and preserve its existence.

“The proposed residential development will allow remedial works to take place to The Walker Fan House and save the structure from further decay.”

The design and access statement concludes: “By agreeing to this development in principle, the local authority will safeguard the ancient monument within the application site.

“The development will allow funds to be made available to remove vegetation which is damaging the existing structure and re-point and make good any parts that appear insecure.

“We feel this planning application should be looked favourably upon and granted permission as we feel there are no justifiable reasons for refusal.

‘By agreeing to this development, the local authority will provide additional homes within the county borough, a need which has been recognised for a number of years.”

The application will be considered for approval at a later date.

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