A listed 17th-century architectural landmark in Dromore – Ashfield House – is set to be restored to its former glory, after planning approval was granted for an extensive restoration scheme.
As part of the approved planning application, the main dwelling on Killysorrell Road will be restored, while a side extension will be demolished, to be replaced by a singe-storey extension.
The abandoned dwelling is being restored by Judith and Mark Armstrong
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council planning officers wrote: “The proposal seeks to demolish the existing two-storey rear side extension; erect a single-storey replacement extension to provide a kitchen, pantry, shower room; restore the remainder of the dwelling, with new windows to match existing openings; repoint exposed stonework and re-plaster in lime plaster.
“Officers are content that the scale of the proposal is acceptable, in that the extension remains subordinate to the host dwelling. The massing and design of the proposed extension is considered to be acceptable in proportion and context to the host dwelling.
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“The external materials proposed are sympathetic to the built form, and as a whole the proposed extension and alterations will not detract from the character of the host property or surrounding area.
“Ashfield House is a building of special architectural and historic interest, protected under Section 80 of the Planning Act (NI) 2011. Listed Buildings are key elements of our built heritage.
“Ashfield House is a symmetrical, two-storey, three-bay farmhouse originating from the mid-17th century, located north of the junction between Killysorrell Road and Villa Wood Road.”
They said the Historic Environment Division (HED) returned their consultation response stating that the proposal satisfies policy on ‘Change of Use, Extension or Alteration of a Listed Building’.
“Considering the works to be carried out to the existing listed dwelling, officers are of the opinion that these fit with the existing built fabric of the building on the site, the proposed extension is located to the rear of the dwelling, and the internal alterations will improve the general layout and functionality of the dwelling.
“Appropriate materials are proposed through the development, and as such are considered to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the dwelling.”
They added: “Considering the works to be carried out to the existing listed dwelling, officers are of the opinion that these fit with the existing built fabric of the building on the site.
“The proposed extension is located to the rear of the dwelling, and the internal alterations will improve the general layout and functionality of the dwelling.
“Appropriate materials are proposed through the development, and as such are considered to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the dwelling.”
According to records, the house was constructed before 1760 by David Lindsay, a prominent figure in the Upper Bann’s linen industry.
Lindsay’s family came from Scotland and were direct descendants of men who had been sent as part of General Monro’s army to fight against the Irish in the rebellion that began here in 1641.
After buying the house in 2023, Judith posted on Instagram: “Some of our friends and family say we are absolutely nuts and should have walked away but it’s been a house I’ve always cranked my neck to look at driving past and when it came up for sale we just had to go for it.
“We are really excited to transform this lovely place back to the country farm house that it deserves. We hope you will follow our progress and love this place as much as we do!”
The story of Ashfield House featured in a recent book, Abandoned Ireland 2, extracts of which were carried in the Belfast Telegraph.