WORK starts this month on a controversial new housing development in Thelwall.

Bridge House, based off Bell Lane, is centred around a historic farm house on the edge of the village conservation area.

The house and barns are to be converted into country homes with a modern twist, while four new homes are to be built in the grounds.

As previously reported in the Warrington Guardian, several members of the council’s planning committee objected to the plans last year along with Grappenhall and Thelwall Parish Council and several residents, saying they were worried about over development of the site, but the plans were passed earlier this year.

The farm house, which dates back to the mid-1700s is believed to be the last remaining smallholding in the village, but it has not been a working farm for the past 80 years.

Developers McCaul Developments (Cheshire) Ltd, who are based in Astley, Greater Manchester, say the two-acre development will reflect the agricultural and country character of the farmhouse and barns and the new builds designed to fit in with the surroundings.

The gated development, which is surrounded by woodland, will epitomise history, luxury and exclusivity.

Martin McCaul, company director, said: “This is our first development in Cheshire so we want to leave our mark.

“We think it will be a real stunning mix of old and contemporary with exclusive views and will be a welcome addition to the village which has always been a favourite of ours.”

He is building the development with his younger brother, Sean.

The company has a rich history.

Joe McCaul was a well known builder in the north west in the 1960s and 1970s and three of his sons, Martin, Sean and Tony are now in the construction business with their own companies.

Their first Manchester city centre development The Point at New Islington was shortlisted last year for one of the UK’s top national design awards.

Bridge House is being built in two phases.

The first phase is the four detached houses and the second phase the barns.

Work is expected to be complete by August 2016 and the new build houses start at £725,000.