Villagers back sculptor's plan to transform farm buildings (From Gazette & Herald)

Villagers back sculptor's plan to transform farm buildings

DERELICT old farm buildings in a moorland pasture are to get a new lease of life as a sculptor's workshop after the North York Moors National Park Authority's planning committee was told that there was unanimous support for the venture from the people of Lastingham.

Jennifer Tetlow, of Lastingham Lodge, wants to rebuild part of the buildings and convert the remainder in a field at Ings Road, Lastingham, but the park's planning officers had recommended refusal on the grounds that the venture would have a detrimental impact on a prominent site and it was unacceptable under the park's planning policies.

But Keith Gavins, chairman of Lastingham Parish Meeting, said the 92 residents were behind the plan because it would help to regenerate Lastingham and rid it of an eyesore.

Ms Tetlow said she exhibited in galleries and venues throughout Britain and most of her pieces were for commission or exhibition. Stone was collected from a local quarry, taken to her workshop and carved.

"I use traditional methods and a sculpture can take many months to complete. The greatest noise comes from hammer-on-chisel chipping and the initial roughing out of a piece of stone."

She said she had been looking for some time for premises but had been unsuccessful due to cost, availability, access or size.

The Ings Road buildings - former goose sheds - were ideal because there would be no disturbance to people living nearby.

"These buildings are worthy of being repaired and restored, to bring the site back with low-key sustainable use, having a positive benefit and strengthening and diversifying the local economy," said Ms Tetlow.

Chief planning officer Val Dilcock said the scheme could not be supported, though officers would have tried to find Ms Tetlow suitable premises.

The planning committee, however, decided it should be given approval because it would improve the appearance of the buildings and aid the local economy.

Updated: 15:22 Wednesday, June 15, 2005