PLANS to demolish a workshop and build an extension for a home have been approved.

A married couple have been granted permission by Cotswold District Council to demolish the Dike and Son workshop to build an extension at 39 Victoria Road.

Dike and Son is now operating from a new location at Glebe Farm, Coln St Dennis.

Planning officers had recommended refusing the proposals for the 2.5 storey side extension due to the monumental sculptors and masons workshop’s architectural and historic interest and its location within the Cirencester South Conservation Area.

However, Cllr Joe Harris, who referred the proposals to the committee, called on councillors to approve the proposals.

“My main issue is that I don’t think the harm to the conservation area outweighs the benefit that will be created by this scheme,” he told the planning and licensing committee last Wednesday, July 12.

“The improvements being put forward signal a positive enhancement to the street scene. At the minute, it’s a rather ramshackle and sad looking workshop with a shop front.”

Cllr Harris said he didn’t think turning the workshop into residential would damage the conservation zone or have any negative impact on the street scene as most nearby properties are larger detached houses.

Councillor Patrick Coleman (LD, Stratton) said there was nothing untoward in the design of the extension and the original workshop was never. “On balance, I would support the local member’s views on this,” he said.

Councillor David Fowles (C, Coln Valley) said he did not think the extension’s design was unusual and he proposed granting permission. This was seconded by Cllr Harris.

But Cllr Mike Evemy (LD, Siddington and Cerney Rural) expressed concerns over the proposals and said he would be voting against granting permission. He said he would like a scheme which maintained the shopfront.

The committee did not feel the proposals harmed the heritage asset and rather preserve its character and appearance. The proposals were approved with conditions which would ensure the extension is in keeping with the existing home.

Five councillors voted in favour, three against and there was one abstention.

Editor's note: The original article stated that Dike and Son had closed but we have been asked to point out that it is still operating.

Dike and Son is a monumental mason business run by Matthew Greaves from Glebe Farm, Coln St Dennis and can be contacted on 01285 652730.

The business moved in November.