Casework

The location:

Croesawdy House in Newtown is a decorative and characterful mid-Victorian villa, built with strong influences of the Aesthetic Movement. Constructed initially for the owners of the Severn Valley Mills, it stands as an important reminder of the history and development of Newtown in the late 19th century through the riches of the flannel industry. 

The large and imposing villa was constructed in the vernacular half-timber style, with a circular tower on one side. Externally, its carved fascia boards, moulded corbels and rafters, and timber framework provide visual appeal, along with its handmade red clay tiles laid in a decorative form on the roof, and stained-glass windows in original casements. Internally, it retains features that lead it to being described as ‘unique of the time’, with a large mosaic floor in the hallway, carved wood panelling, and archway insets of Milton decorative tiles. 

What we did:

We initially raised concerns with Powys Council about the proposed demolition of Croesawdy using permitted development rights, given its relatively good condition and ease of adaption into apartments to ensure its future viability. Given the limited ability to object to permitted development, we encouraged the Council to engage with the owner to seek its retention as part of the proposed redevelopment scheme, and to use its full powers to issue a building preservation notice. Cadw subsequently assessed the villa for listing, and in mid-December 2022 provided it with Grade II status on the statutory list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest, saving it from demolition under permitted development.