PLANS have been forward for the development of three bungalows on the grounds of a former private school in Gosforth.

The proposed housing will fall on the grounds of Harecroft Hall, a 19th-century mansion that was formerly used as a private school from 1926 to 2008. 

The school closed in 2008 due to falling pupil numbers. 

The applicant who purchased the former school has been trying to restore the main hall to its former glory and in order to fund the restoration, they have previously converted buildings ancillary to the main hall into holiday-letting accommodations as well as on-site glamping pods. 

However, the restoration of Harecroft Hall is estimated to take a further eight years to complete, with costs far exceeding the initial estimates.

In an effort to expedite the process, the applicant has proposed the development of 'local occupancy dwellings' within the grounds of the hall.

The design and access statement reads: "The Hall requires significant work to save this amazing and much-loved building from its derelict state.

"Although substantial works have been undertaken over recent years it is estimated to take a further eight years to complete with costs far greater than were estimated originally.

"We now believe and after careful consideration, research and feedback from the LDNPA that we can provide local occupancy dwellings and help meet the demands for housing the local community has and further improve the chances of competing for a successful restoration and saving of Harecroft Hall with a quicker timescale," they said. 

The plans were lodged to the Lake District National Park Planning Authority on August 21 by Ashwood Design Associates Ltd.