Historic farmhouse alert as council rush to save building

A late 18th century farmhouse of special historic interest which was earmarked for changes has been saved by quick-thinking planners. Three Rivers District Council (TRDC) officers intervened when the owners of the farmhouse outside Shenley notified the council that they wanted to build a large extension on the property, which itself requires significant renovation. Wild Farm, also known as White House, was built during the Agricultural Revolution and its grand style was designed to reflect the wealth of the landowner. After an investigation by Historic England – formerly English Heritage – the building has now been given a Grade II listed status, providing extra protection against further changes. Christine Lyons, head of planning and economic regeneration for TRDC, said: “This is a great result for us and shows that the council will take all the steps necessary to protect the area’s heritage. “When we received notification from the owners of Wild Farm that they wanted to build an extension we acted quickly by immediately serving a statutory notice, given the wider risks to the property associated with the extension and renovation of the house. Hear what else Christine Lyons had to say, and more, in the October edition of My Radlett & Shenley News, which will be distributed on September 30.