Martin Parish Council approves demolition of ‘eyesore’ farmhouse at Sundown Farm

PLANNING permission has been granted for the replacement of an “eyesore” farmhouse near Fordingbridge with another larger property.

Ms C Besent applied to knock down the existing four-bedroom property at Sundown Farm, Martin, and build a dwelling further west on the site, fronting onto Howgare Road.

The application for the new property, which would also have four bedrooms, includes a two-storey outbuilding to be used as a garage and tackroom/store.

It was discussed at a meeting of the council’s planning committee on Wednesday, which granted permission despite a recommendation from the case officer to refuse it.

A report said an increase of 60% in floorspace compared to the original dwelling would have “a resultant harmful impact on the character of the area due to its scale and mass”.

However, Martin Parish Council recommended it be approved, on the grounds the existing building on the site, which has been vacant since 2022, was “an eyesore”.

The new proposed building was in keeping with the area, the council said, adding its new position on the site would mean it was less visible.

Backing the scheme was district councillor David Hawkins, who said the new building was “an improvement” on the original farmhouse.

Cllr John Sleep agreed, saying: “The parish council are saying it is an eyesore and to get rid of it. It’s not very often we get a parish council saying they are approving.”

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