Grade II-listed 17th-century Powys farmhouse repairs approved

Plans for structural repairs and alterations to a damaged wall and associated works at Neuadd Llwyd were submitted to Powys County Council (PCC) in January. They were approved on Friday, March 27.

The accident resulted in “significant but localised” damage to the Grade II-listed building, leaving its north-west facing elevation with structural damage to a corner post, as well as sections of its historic gable wall.

A built heritage officer for the local authority said that there were no objections to the plans, subject to recommendations.

“The proposal seeks to repair structural damage caused by a vehicular impact to the southwest corner of the building,” said the officer in a report.

“Some agreed opening up works have already been carried out to investigate the extent of repairs required. Following some initial queries, revised elevations have been submitted.

“The primary timber elements needing repair are the corner post and ground floor rail, which are to be repaired or replaced with new oak timbers.

Plans were approved by Powys County Council this week. (Image: Supplied)

“A section of part rubble/part brick masonry wall on the southwest elevation will need to be taken down and rebuilt accordingly to match the existing construction.

“The existing materials are to be retained as much as possible for reuse, however, approval of samples for the mortar and new masonry needed to make up any shortfall should be secured via conditions.”

The methodology for repairs to both the exterior and interior of the property includes installing an internal prop to ground floor level to be able to carry out the works safely, which will require some lifting of floorboards and removal of ceiling panels. These should be reinstated in full once the prop is removed.

The damaged soil and vent pipe will also need to be replaced. All existing rainwater goods and drainage pipes across the building have been confirmed as uPVC, which is typically not considered a suitable material for a listed building.

However, given that this material has been used across the whole property and its wholescale replacement does not form part of this application, a like-for-like replacement of the existing would maintain a consistent external appearance for the property.

“Overall, the proposed works are necessary to repair structural damage to the listed building and this is fully supported,” said the report.

“The scheme of repairs is considered to be of a suitable scope and on the whole works will be carried out using appropriate materials and techniques.

“There is no objection, subject to the following recommended conditions – this application will need to be referred to Cadw.”

A steep, landscaped bank that separates the farmyard from the farmhouse was the direction of impact.

The property, dating from the early to mid-17th century, was previously part of the Powys estate before 1880.

In planning documents, it is described as “a well-preserved and relatively unaltered example of a large and impressive lobby-entry house of the sub-medieval period”.

The two-storey farmhouse features traditional timber-framed construction with box framing, painted brick and plaster panel infill, and a slate roof with brick stacks.