Plans to convert Grade Two listed racing stables in West Felton into homes have been approved.

Reverend Robert Park, of Tedsmore Hall Ltd in West Felton, submitted the proposal for the old stable block in March, fearing for its future if it was left vacant.

His plans received the backing of West Felton Parish Council which accepted redevelopment would be required to retain the building as a heritage asset.

However, concerns were then raised by Alan Griffith, who said the access road was not suitable to take more traffic.

He also said the site would be too far away from village amenities, would put extra pressure on the infrastructre, and voiced concerns over possible flooding.

Granting planning permission, the case officer for Shropshire Council, Oliver Thomas, agreed the conversion was necessary to protect the heritage asset.

He added: “Overall the loss of historic fabric is minimal, and where inevitable will be carried out in a way that is sympathetic of the building, with an aim to ensure all works are in keeping with the existing character of the wider Tedsmore Estate. Where possible, historic features will be retained and repaired.

“The proposed works will have a less-than-substantial harm on the character and setting of the existing curtilage listed building, where the public benefit of preserving, retaining and enhancing this designated heritage asset far exceeds any slight loss of fabric or historical features.”

Rev Parker also submitted a separate proposal in March to covert a modern stable block, also on the Tedsmore estate, into holiday lets.

That application is still being considered by planning officers.