Campaigners pin hopes on English Heritage saving Birstall mansion

Clough House in Leeds Road, Howden Clough, dates back to 1799 and is believed to be the former home of wealthy landowner John Gott.

The house, which stands in extensive grounds, was previously used as the base for a haulage business. It has stood empty for about two years and fixtures and fittings have been removed from inside.

Rosie Carr wants to demolish the house and build 30 new homes on the site, sparking objections from local residents.

According to documents on the Kirklees Council website, local people called in English Heritage over fears the house was being stripped.

Work was halted and English Heritage has been asked to list the house for its historical merit.

There are more than 30 representations on the council planning website and one says: “Clough House is a historic house, dating back to the 18th century and originally owned by the equivalent of the local squire and therefore is of historical importance to the village of Birstall.

“The property has been vacant for at least two years, recently demolition crews removed the interior and the windows.

“Historic England became involved and stopped this work when a listing application was made.”

Birstall Tory councillor Liz Smaje said she wanted to see the house retained as part of any development and said 30 homes was far too many for a proposed access in Moat Hill Farm Drive.

“The house is a feature of Howden Clough and no-one wants to see it left to rot,” she added.

A heritage report submitted by the applicant dismisses claims that the house is of historic or architectural value.