A HISTORIC 17th century farmhouse and an accompanying barn in Cheshire West could be transformed into seven luxury family homes.

Monton Construction Ltd is seeking permission to convert the Grade-II listed buildings off Marston Lane, between Wincham and Great Budworth, into a 'distinctive' residential development.

The plans would see the farmhouse, which dates back to 1695, become two homes, while the barn, believed to be from the early 19th century, would become five.

All existing non-listed on the site would be demolished to increase the landscaping and greenery around the listed buildings.

A design and access statement, written by Howard and Seddon Architects on behalf of the applicants, says: "The overall vision is to provide a distinctive and high quality residential development, which improves the local area and enhances existing green space assets.

"The proposed development will provide seven spacious and luxurious family homes. The farmhouse will be converted into two homes and the barn will be converted into five homes. Both the buildings will be divided and partitioned internally to create the homes.

"The scheme also aims to have a minimum 300 per cent car parking spaces along with private gardens.

"Due to the Grade II listing on both the buildings, we intend to retain as much of the external facade features and internal structure as possible.

"The proposal will also involve the demolition of all the non-listed, derelict structures including the tank.

"This will allow us to reclaim a lot of the land to be used as private garden/amenity space including a large central courtyard for all of the residents."

The units are a mixture of two-storey and two-and-a-half-storey layouts with some utilising the loft space.

Vehicle and pedestrian access to the site will be from Marston Lane as well as nearby Dark Lane.

The design and access statement added: "The Grade II designation of the house denotes it is of national importance for its special architectural and historic interest.

"It is a large property that is currently under-used. The barn has been disused for some time."

For more details on this application, or to submit a comment, search reference 21/04764/FUL on the council's online planning portal.

The deadline for submitting comments is January 27.