Dream home in Wilsden was a joy to create

Alan and Janet Pickles nearly didn’t get their dream home, when the land they had purchased was returned to green belt and planning was refused.

The couple grew up in Wilsden where they continued to live after their wedding.

“We had extended our previous family home and we both had the same ambition to one day build our dream home,” says Alan.

“Out walking our usual evening route we always passed an overgrown piece of land in which stood a dilapidated brick built green house, old caravan and vintage car. The land had previously been a large allotment where the owner had a small market garden. We both agreed what a fabulous location if we could build!”

They made inquiries with the owner, but the plot was not on the open market . “It took months of discussions before they decided to sell, but we remained sceptical that we would be allowed to build as the surrounding area was green belt.

To see if they could obtain planning permission they contacted the planning department. Fortunately they received a quick reply and outline permission was granted.

“We were ecstatic and nervous at the same time that our dream might come true! What we never envisaged was the months of highs and low lows that lay ahead.”

The next process was to design their dream, contacting local architect Peter Brooksbank. “We had our first meeting on site and discussed our vision and his first drawing was exactly what we had sketched in our minds. Plans were submitted and to our amazement were refused on Highway grounds because of visibility distance at the entrance to the property.

“This was something we never anticipated and was a major setback.”

To their horror when they resubmitted new plans, they were refused again. “Because of the time lapse, the plot had been reassessed and turned to green belt. We went to appeal where fortunately common sense prevailed and we received the relevant planning permission.”

The house is of traditional build. “The contractor had quoted for uniformed stone, but we were determined to have reclaimed random Delph. To achieve this, the stone was delivered on site.

“We couldn’t believe the size of the stack, as each stone had to be hand-picked, coursed and placed on pallets, this was our contribution to the build – and it was back-breaking work. Fortunately, we had help from family including my 85-year-old father-in-law and a good friend.”

Throughout the construction, Alan and Jane had an excellent working relationship with their builder. “He was flexible to any slight alterations as the house progressed. We sourced all fixtures and fittings including bespoke kitchen with granite work tops, main bathroom air bath with hydro whirlpool jets.

“The build started in April, 2002, we had a house-warming party at the end of November prior to moving in on completion in December 2002 – in time for our first Christmas.”

The garden was a blank canvas apart from a mature apple tree. “We’ve used railway sleepers to create a raised area and flower beds. The lawn is level, gravel paths and areas for pots make it a manageable garden, with a woodland backdrop to the stream – lovely and relaxing to listen to when sat outdoors. Our children and their friends have spent many hours playing in the open space which is a real adventure area.”

From the outside, the house is very deceptive – the size of the property is 3,220sq ft. It is definitely a family home, at present with four bedrooms and having the bonus of space, being able to create a large fifth bedroom and en-suite.

There is also the potential for a separate contained annex or office.

“The design of the open kitchen/family room leading through to the conservatory is a good sociable area. Our friends say it’s a great entertaining house, but when we want to relax, especially in the winter months the glow of the coal-effect gas fire in the lounge makes it a cosy room.

“We are spoilt for views because the house has views to three sides. Woodland to rear, open fields to the front and Harden Moor to the side – something that we will find hard to duplicate.

“We will certainly miss the wildlife including the visit from the ducks in late April to May. They came to our garden four years ago and have returned every year since, looking for food.

“Making a decision to place the house on the market as been difficult as we have so many emotional ties. Our children have grown up and we feel now is the time for our next adventure!”