A WIMBLINGTON man has been refused permission to demolish a derelict cottage on his land and build a home in its place.

Cambs Times: The back of the derelict cottageThe back of the derelict cottage (Image: Archant)

Andrew Coward, of Yorkes Farm, Block Fen Drove, Wimblington, hoped to build a four bedroom two storey house with a garage and stables but his appeal was rejected by Fenland District Council.

Cambs Times: Derelict house in Block Fen near Wimblington.Derelict house in Block Fen near Wimblington. (Image: Archant)

The application dates from August last year and was initially rejected the following month.

Cambs Times: Derelict house in Block Fen near Wimblington.Derelict house in Block Fen near Wimblington. (Image: Archant)

The cottage stands on a site which was lived in for more than 80 years but has been empty since the 1970s.

Only its outer walls and chimneystack remain standing.

Mr Coward said building has always been a home and that the damage was caused by theft and vandalism.

But, the inspector said she was confident the building had been abandoned.

She said: “In view of the present condition of the structure, the remains of the collapsed roof piled up inside, and the trees growing through the last remnants of the upper floor, there is no evidence of any recent intention to retain or use the building.

“I am satisfied that the residential use and the building itself have been abandoned.

“Since the site is remote from any employment, educational, shopping, health or other community services or social facilities and has no reasonably convenient access to public transport, and any occupiers would rely entirely for access on private transport, this undoubtedly is not a suitable location.”