Plans for community hall in Eling near Hermitage

Plans to turn some old, disused farm barns into a community hall near Hermitage have been submitted to West Berkshire Council.

It is hoped the buildings, at Eling Farm, would be used by local schools and other groups for forest school activities, Scouts, a singing group, pony club, cycling group and archaeology group.

All would be low key users which would not generate significant vehicular trips or noise and disturbance, says the application.

The author and MP Gerald Palmer (1904-1984) acquired farms, woodland and cottages over his lifetime to create what is now known as the Eling Estate.

The majority of the estate, including Eling Farm, is now managed by a charitable trust.

The proposed community use is considered to be an optimal use for the building ensuring that it is provided with a future use to preserve the building’s historic interest while also providing community benefits.

The proposed offices would be suitable for small local businesses, including possibly those currently working from home who require a small local office space to start growth.

Eling Farmhouse and the group of traditional farm buildings at Eling Farm were added to the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest under two separate entries at Grade II in 2006.

Eling is an ancient settlement that was recorded in the Domesday Survey of 1086 when it belonged to Saxon royalty.

In 1761 it was known as Eeling; the old farmhouse was replaced in 1825 and the farm buildings constructed between 1825 and the late 19th century.

The farm buildings have gradually become redundant from agricultural use, with farming activities recently ceasing completely.