Home / Environment / Rock House Plan Approved on Yorkshire Moor
Rock House Plan Approved on Yorkshire Moor
18 Oct
Summary
- A house resembling the Cow and Calf Rocks was approved.
- It will be built on green belt land to Passivhaus standards.
- The design was passed by the Planning Inspectorate via country house clause.
A distinctive house designed to mimic the natural rock formations of the Cow and Calf Rocks on Yorkshire's Ilkley Moor has received planning approval. The contemporary eco-friendly home, adhering to the ultra-low energy Passivhaus standard, features striking irregular-shaped windows and a natural outdoor pool. This unique structure is slated for construction on green belt land, formerly part of a private garden.
The project, named Fomorian after Irish mythological giants and local folklore, was commissioned by landowner David Rasche and designed by architects Shaw & Jagger. The design draws deep inspiration from the moor's geology, ancient carvings, and standing stones, aiming to be intrinsically connected to its spirit of place.
Initially submitted to Bradford Council, the application faced delays and was ultimately refused permission by the council planners due to non-determination. Ilkley Town Council had also objected, citing concerns about the house becoming a 'visual anomaly' on the protected moorland, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve.
However, an appeal to the HM Planning Inspectorate, made under the country house clause, resulted in the plans being passed in August. This clause permits development on green belt land for buildings of 'exceptional quality' that 'significantly enhance' their setting and are sensitive to local characteristics. The planning inspector recognized Fomorian as an 'innovative design' capable of raising rural design standards.
