Work can get underway on the conversion of a Victorian water tower after planners granted approval to transform the landmark building into a two-bedroom house.
The water tower at Pepper Arden Hall, South Cowton, between Darlington and Northallerton, once supplied water to the estate house and gardens.
The 30m tower has been largely redundant since mains water arrived on the estate in the mid-20th century. But it will get a new lease of life after owner Richard Gatty saw plans approved by North Yorkshire County Council.
The plans include construction of four floors with two bedrooms, a kitchen-living area and the opening up of previously blocked window arches to create views across the Yorkshire Dales and Cleveland Hills.
A single-story extension will follow the footprint of the tower’s former pump house, and residents will also be able to relax in a cargo net suspended between the ground and first floors.
Mr Gatty, whose family have owned Pepper Arden Hall since the early 1900s, came up with the idea of converting the building into housing in support of the estate’s growing wedding business.
“The tower is iconic – you can see it for miles around,” he added.
“But for too long it’s not really had a use and we don’t want to see it fall into disrepair. These plans will protect the building for generations to come. We can’t wait to get started.”
The building is grade II listed which means special permission is required to make alterations – permissions that have now been granted subject to conditions.
The plans were overseen by Matt Ball Architecture of Richmond, which operates throughout North Yorkshire and the North-East.
Matt Ball, director, said: “We want to breathe new life into this remarkable building while also honouring its heritage and that of the surrounding estate.
“This is the closest you’ll ever get to a skyscraper in rural North Yorkshire – the views are unparalleled in this part of the world. It’s going to be a truly unique house for unforgettable occasions.”
Work on the project will get underway once a building contractor is appointed.
For more information about Pepper Arden Hall, visit www.pepperardenhall.com
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