Plans to demolish a "unique" Arts and Crafts-style home have triggered several objections.
Developers want to turn the site on 78 Gallows Hill Lane, Abbots Langley, into three four-bed detached houses.
The property currently there was built around 1921, but in June 2021 it was not deemed applicable for listing by Three Rivers District Council.
Following a planning application on March 14, five objections have been lodged.
One person has said: “This unique property should be preserved. Yes, ok to convert the interior (maybe into flats) but seriously not ok to demolish.”
Another said the new development is not appropriate for the location.
They added that the Arts and Crafts architectural style is an “important and rare example within the vernacular housing provision”.
It was also felt that the house contributed to the character and history of Abbots Langley village.
However, the location is outside of the conservation area.
The site was owned by John Inett Ward, and his family has been described as “notable” by one of the objectors.
They added: “When this house was sold, we were looking forward to seeing it restored to its former glory.”
Another objector said: “My children deserve the right to see properties like this, not just new builds.”
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The landowner and developer Jon Gomme stressed that the proposed builds have been designed to take into consideration the current house’s aesthetics.
He said: “The new development has got the Arts and Crafts feel.”
Mr Gomme said he has listened to people’s concerns and has reduced the original plan from five houses to three.
He added: “The current house is an inefficient build. It was built after the war and cheaply.
“Living in this house now and heating it would not be cost effective and it would not be viable to fix it up.”
Mr Gomme added he is invested in the area as he lives in the village and hires local trades people.
If plans are approved, each house will have three off-street parking spaces that will include one electric charging point.
Cycle storage is also proposed in private garden sheds.
The application can be found on the council's planning portal via reference 22/2315/FUL.
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