REVAMP UNDERWAY: Abandoned properties in Abbots Langley can return to former glories

A development and construction company which has acquired abandoned properties on the High Street is looking to restore them to their former glories, with a modern touch.

Church LLP acquired 23-31 High Street, opposite St Lawrence Church, in April with a view to restoring the properties to their former glory, retaining the Heritage asset, whilst improving the interior of the properties to make them suitable for modern family life.

They have since removed almost 100 tonnes of clutter from the properties which have not been properly habitable for more than 40 years. 

Matthew French, managing director of Church, said: “I wanted to let the public know what we’re doing because often, companies buy these local properties and the community panic because they think you’ll ruin the place and its history.

“But that isn’t what we do or what we want to do. We’ve been working with a heritage consultant from day one to learn the full history of the buildings before we remodel them, so that we can keep that important part of their history. But we also want the cottages to contribute to the local need for living accommodation. 

“These places served no purpose when we purchased them – there was so much clutter and flammable objects, which made the property completely unliveable. We are excited about the possibilities for these beautiful cottages and promise to update you with further historical fact and floorplans just as soon as they are available.”

The plan is to restore the buildings into five cottages, with a four-bedroom, three-bedroom and three two-bedroom properties, updated for modern living, each with their own garden.

AbbotsNews will keep residents up-to-date with the heritage report, which is sure to bring back interesting findings, as well as with Church’s developments.

The company is currently in pre-planning communication with Three Rivers District Council and a planning application will soon be submitted for residents to comment on.

Church LLP, which was founded in 2007, is experienced with restoring old and unused property.