An application to knock down an historic lodge to build new houses has been withdrawn amid public outcry.
Penwortham Priory Gatehouse was targeted for demolition via a planning application which sought to redevelop the land on the corner of Moor Lane in Hutton.
Now known as The Lodge, the castle-like structure is thought to be the last remaining part of the priory and was set to be cleared in an application submitted by Gibraltar-based planning agent Glencairn Ltd on behalf of the executors of Anne Whitworth.
Read more: Five South Ribble parks given Green Flag Awards
The attempt prompted a furious response by those concerned by the potential loss of the historic structure and more than 250 objections were lodged.
According to various sources, and cited in Hutton Parish Council’s response to the application, the Rawsthorne family chose not to lose the lodge when Penwortham Hill was widened in 1912 and instead had it carefully dismantled, stone by stone, and rebuilt in Hutton at its present location.
However, Peter Iles, a planning officer from Lancashire County Council’s Historic Environment Team, stated in his response that this could not be confirmed and concluded there “is no suggestion that the present site of The Lodge has any archaeological significance”.
The application has now been withdrawn by the developer, though no reason has been given for this. Blog Preston has contacted Glencairn for comment.
Historic England is considering listing the gatehouse, meaning it would be officially designated as a building of special architectural or historic interest and would be afforded greater legal protection.
A spokesperson said: “There is a high bar for listing in the national context, but we are currently in the process of carefully considering the application and are aware of the demolition proposals.”
