Merlewood, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria- Historic Building Investigation, Topographic Survey and Archaeological Evaluation

Planning applications have been submitted by JMP Architects, on behalf of HPB Management Ltd, outlining proposals to redevelop the site of Merlewood, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria (SD 4095 7960) into a residential holiday complex (planning references 5/07/0585 and 5/07/0586). Merlewood is a Grade II listed nineteenth-century mansion with ancillary structures and is situated within extensive grounds. The proposals involve demolition of most of the ancillary buildings, to be replaced with new structures. The structures outlined for demolition date variously from the nineteenth century through to the late twentieth century. The main house is being retained and incorporated into the new development.
A previous desk-based assessment carried out by Oxford Archaeology North (OA North 2006) indicated that the site lies within an area of archaeological potential and that a number of the structures on site were of historical interest. Accordingly, Cumbria County Council Historic Environment Service (CCCHES) issued a brief for a programme of archaeological investigation and recording to be undertaken in advance of any development taking place. These works were to comprise an English Heritage Level II standard historic building investigation of a number of the structures that were scheduled for demolition, a topographic survey of the northern terrace and concrete WWII building platforms, and trial trench evaluations within the footprints of proposed new structures. Following submission of a project design, OA North was commissioned by HPB Management Ltd to undertake the works.