Plans to convert three derelict barns to homes and build three more homes in Barrowden have received approval.

David Pennell of Burghley Estates has received planning consent from Rutland County Council concerning the 0.73ha site at Welland Farm Barns in Main Street.

The approval also includes 19 parking spaces to serve the homes. Access to the site will be from the existing road entrance from Main Street.

A report by council planning staff recommending approval noted mixed views from nearby residents, with some supporting the scheme and others believing the development was too dense with some of it out of keeping with the area. Some also sought smaller, more affordable homes.

The report noted the site previously received planning permission in 2005 to redevelop the farmyard, a development which never eventuated.

The site is also within the Planned Limit to Development for Barrowden where development is acceptable in principle, subject to details. It is also within Barrowden Conservation area and adjacent to a listed farmhouse.

Assessing the application, Rutland Council planning staff concluded the "proposed development would be in accordance with the development plan policies, it would not materially harm the character of the conservation area, the setting of the adjacent listed building or the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers and would be acceptable in all other planning considerations."

The report added: "The Council has taken into account all other matters, none of which outweigh the considerations that have led to it's decision."