The Planning Process Begins

It’ll be a shorter post this week, and a day later than the usual Wednesday posting. Nigel and I took advantage in a lull in activity at Betley Court to take a short break and headed for the Isle of Mull.

The vast majority of the clearance phase is complete, meaning that debris from the fire has been removed from the main house and those flats that were completely destroyed by the fire. Two of the flats had some areas where water damaged was the main source of destruction, so those have been emptied of furniture and possessions too. The contractors have cut out fire damaged beams and sodden plaster partition walls, so what we have left is basically a shell, and we’re back the walls, and floors, where they still exist!

Former study in the main house

The next job is working out what to do with the shell of the building. We’ve submitted plans to the local authority, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council to reinstate the roof.  Essentially, the roof will look the same from the street, but hopefully, modifications to some of the interior sections will help it deal with sudden downpours more efficiently. Tonight, it’s the turn of Betley, Balterley and Wrinehill Parish Council to scrutinise the architect’s drawings and proposal. Although under English planning law, the parish council’s role is purely advisory, their recommendations are weighed up when the local planning department discusses a planning proposal. Of course, with Betley being such a close-knit community, and Betley Court a prominent building at the heart of it, we expect a lot of interest.

The residents' hall, where the first and second floors ahve been destroyed

Many of the councillors were on the scene on the day of the fire, donning hi-viz jackets to direct traffic, deal with the press and public, and start the relief of residents that had lost their homes.  There is a comfort in knowing that familiar faces will be appraising our plans. They’re dealing with a building they know, and know the affection in which Betley Court is held locally. Fingers crossed, they’ll look favourably on the plans and we can move forward to the next stage.

All best wishes

Ladybird Su