Keeping Crewe’s historic railway cottages safe and warm

There was good news for the future and the past for Crewe this week as a total of up to 65 historic railway cottages in Crewe’s town centre will be eligible to be repaired and improved thanks to the ‘Warm and Healthy Homes’ project facilitated by Cheshire East Council.

The £2.1 million grant will improve the thermal efficiency of the cottages, making them warmer and more energy efficient, as well as improving and preserving the exterior of the properties at the same time.

Four local listed building ‘consent orders’ are now in place which means that owners of the specified Grade II buildings eligible will not have to make individual planning applications to Cheshire East Council, and will be able to take advantage of the monies available to improve their homes. Works to improve the public spaces in front of the properties including walls and gardens as well as improvements to doors and windows, roofs and chimneys and internal works are all covered by the orders.

It is the first time Cheshire East Council has developed a heritage scheme in this way and has consulted widely with residents and the local community so that they are aware of the scheme. Having the consent orders in place will make the process of applying a much more efficient process for council staff and for residents.

Cheshire East Council’s Strategic Planning Board voted unanimously for approval of the consent orders which cover all the properties on Betley, Dorfold and Tollitt Streets, and 16 properties on Victoria Street.

Each street has its own order which includes the architectural drawings and details the heritage designs permitted. The orders will remain in place for 10 years.

Work is due to start on 49 properties from households who have already signed up to the scheme this summer.

Cllr Ben Wye, who proposed the vote, said:

“This is a brilliant scheme which will help protect and preserve Crewe’s unique railway cottages and make life more pleasant for residents who live in these properties, by reducing draughts and keeping their homes warm in winter. It’ll also help to reduce energy bills too so a win for our heritage, our residents and our environment.

“Crewe’s railway company built these cottages in 1845 for their workers. Some of the cottages still have unique features such as sash windows which slide sideways, like the sliding windows fitted in signal boxes.”

Pictured - Some of the railway cottages on Dortfold Street in Crewe.

Picture Credit -  Heather Seddon.