Developer explains why farm was demolished at Bradford homes site

Local housebuilders Throstle Nest Developments are developing the site of a former farm and Throstle Nest Riding School at Fagley Hill, Eccleshill, with the creation of 21 three-bedroom homes.

New housing development at Throstle Nest in Eccleshill (Image: Newsquest)

Throstle Nest Farm was occupied until the summer of 2017 by the riding school but they moved to Wilsden to make way for the housing development.

Concerns were expressed as the Grade II-listed barn went to rack and ruin and was reduced to a shell by vandals.

Rubbish was fly-tipped on the site and fires had been started in the building, which burned through the roof.

A spokesman for Throstle Nest Developments said: “Unfortunately, there was significant fire damage to the building after it was extensively vandalised, which burned through the roof trusses.

“This caused the roof to fall through and damage the gable walls to such an extent that they were declared unsafe.

“This followed a site visit by the council’s building control team as well as representatives from the body responsible for registering listed buildings.

“In the interests of safety, and to protect anybody who may have entered the building - especially children -  they then submitted an emergency demolition order. 

“It was with great sadness that it had to be pulled down rather than converted, as had been the original plan. But it had become so unsafe there was no alternative.”

To make way for the development, the Throstle Nest Riding School moved to Wilsden Equestrian Centre, based at Laneside in Wilsden.

The riding school recently hosted a 30-year anniversary event for its RDA group which originally started at Throstle Nest Farm in 1992. 

New development at Throstle Nest (Image: UGC)

A new £5 million collection of family homes have now gone on the market at Throstle Nest.

The detached and semi-detached homes, which back on to the Fagley Beck public space, are on the market for between £232,500 and £267,500.

David Waddington, director at Linley & Simpson estate, said: “We are thrilled to launch this development in this popular residential area.”

Housebuyers can take advantage of a Throstle Nest offer – all the properties have cost-efficient air source heat pumps.

Mr Waddington said: “As heating bills increase, and the cost of living pressures gather pace, the savings this generates appeals to those looking to make every penny of their budget go as far as possible.

“Equipped with electric vehicle charging points, these properties are future-proofed with modern living in mind.”

Have you got a story for us? Email newsdesk@telegraphandargus.co.uk or contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Sign up to our newsletter to get updates sent straight to your inbox.

You can also call us on 01274 705292.