A historic Dutch barn in Tixall, Stafford could be converted into new houses if plans are signed off by council planners.  

An application was submitted to Stafford Borough Council to convert an "existing listed Dutch Barn to form two new dwellings". 

A separate application has been submitted for another two homes on the same site, as well as a detached garage. 

According to the application, "The building is currently derelict and empty and has not been used for agricultural purposes for decades.  

"Giving the building a viable use, in accordance with English Heritage's Enabling Development, will ensure its future and prevent further decline." 

It claims that no part of the original building would be destroyed, and no extensions would be added. 

An aerial shot of the site (image via Stafford Borough Council)

The grade II listed building is part of a farm built in the 19th century.  

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Other sections of the farm were converted into the development now known as Tixall Court in the 1990s.  

The application states: "The proposed development is considered sympathetic and sensitive in approach, retaining the historic character of the building and giving it a new lease of life." 

"The proposal aims to minimise any interventions to the historic fabric by no new openings, no alterations of the facades and only infilling the existing arches and openings." 

An etching of a similar 19th century farm (image via University of Reading)

There are also plans to build a garage however this would be out of sight from the road. 

Residents can comment on the application on the Stafford Borough website. 

Link to application.