A Grade II-listed thatched cottage severely damaged by flames last year is to rise from the ashes following plans submitted to the borough council.
Bridge Cottage, located on Village Street in Thruxton, is set to be rebuilt if plans get approval from Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC). The roof caught fire on July 11 last year, with firefighters from across the county and beyond rushing to tackle the flames.
The Thornes, who own the cottage, have now asked for the council to allow them to rebuild their home, with neighbours coming out in support.
In their submission to TVBC, Clare and Robert Oliver said: “We are writing to support the plans which have been submitted for Bridge Cottage, Village Street, Thruxton, following an horrendous fire last year.
“We live in the village, Lambourne Way, and feel the plans are a great compromise between safety and conserving the building for the future.
“We do hope that you will see fit to accept their proposal, so they may begin to restore their home and move back into our village as soon as possible.”
The fire broke out in Bridge Cottage on the afternoon of July 11, with 13 fire crews attending the scene at its height. Crews from Andover, Basingstoke, Overton and Sutton Scotney were among those called, with support also coming from over the border in Wiltshire and Berkshire.
Motorists were asked to avoid the area and thick black smoke was seen filling the sky as a result of the blaze, which left the rear of the property devastated.
Under the plans, the Thornes want to convert the roof at the rear to tiling, instead of thatch, as well as replacing the doors and windows of the damaged building.
This change has not been opposed by neighbours, with Cat Boslem saying: “I wish it to be known that I fully support the plans outlined for a titled roof to be used instead of thatched. In the interest of health and safety, surely a tiled roof is far less combustible, more sustainable and resilient option to the previous thatch?
“The property next door used to be thatched and after a fire many years ago and was rebuilt with a tiled roof and does not detract for the style or the appearance of the property.”
The plans are currently being considered by TVBC officers, and will be decided on in due course. If you would like to have your say, search TVBC’s planning portal with the reference: 21/01927/LBWN
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here