A COUPLE from High Crompton have saved a historic former vicarage from residential development after their offer to turn it into one large family home was accepted by the Diocese of Manchester.
Set within a spacious 0.35-acre plot, the building with its natural stonework facade boasts an aesthetic and historical presence which is unique to the locality.
As foster parents to three children it is ideal for Jonathan and his family, with spacious rooms, sprawling gardens and ample living spaces.
Jonathan said: “We had been looking to buy a bigger house for a while and when we saw the vicarage was up for development, we felt it would be a shame to see it split into four residences.
“It came on to the market in September last year and planning permission for it to be turned into separate houses had been granted, but we thought we’d still make enquiries with the estate agent.
“We wanted to know, if the right offer was made, whether it could remain as a single property and when we put forward our proposition to them, they were completely on board.
“The Diocese of Manchester, who were selling the vicarage, were also happy for us to proceed with our plan to convert it into one large home and we’re delighted to have their backing.”
He continued: “It’s a fantastic place, nice and big and its situation lends itself well to be a wonderful family home, and we’re very excited about the prospect of living here.
“There was another interested party who wanted to turn it into a children’s home, but for one reason or another the Diocese rejected that application.
“It’s liveable but we do have plans to bring back some of the Victorian spirit.
“The décor is quite plain, and we want to have more bold colours and panelling that were typical of the mid-1800s.”