AN eco developer and residents in Standlake have clashed over the future of a historical but unlisted building in the village.

Developer Brian Cade hopes to demolish the “derelict” house, which dates back to at least 1747, and build two new eco-homes.

But residents have said the building contributes to the rich tapestry of the village and have applied to English Heritage for listed status.

If English Heritage agree this would have an impact on West Oxfordshire District Council’s planning decision.

Standlake resident Becky Pickford, 48, said: “This beautiful old building represents an important example of traditional vernacular and architecture.

“Its continued presence contributes hugely to the rich tapestry of old buildings which make up our village.

“A lot of people in the village are very upset about the planning application. No one is against new buildings, as long as they do not destroy old buildings.”

Resident Paul Gingell, 40, said: “It is a very important village asset and it is certainly a landmark. In my opinion it defines the vernacular of the whole village.

“We need to improve the quality of housing stock in the country but that should not require knocking down ancient buildings.”

The building featured on the cover of magazine Country Life in December, 1974.

Mr Cade said: “Basically the farm houses a derelict old building that is in very poor condition and the plan is to replace it with two eco houses.

“This will provide warm, cosy homes rather than a cold, drafty one.”

He said the home had been “gutted” during a refurbishment in the 1960s, which “destroyed” the internal heritage, and there was nothing worth saving.

But English Heritage is set to send a listing officer to visit the home on Monday to make a decision on the listed status of the building.

Mr Cade added: “If they think it is worth saving, the planning application will be withdrawn.

“But I feel the village should draw up a list of houses that are worth saving in Standlake.

“If it is just this one building they want listed they are being unfair.”

Mr Cade said the new buildings will cost about £400 a year to heat and power, compared to about £4,000 a year with the current building.

Charles Mathew, Oxfordshire County Council Conservative member for Eynsham, said: “I am well aware of the concerns being expressed.

“I am also concerned about access on to the highway at that point, in my role as county councillor.”

Mr Mathew said he would attend a Standlake Parish Council meeting on Tuesday, where the parish council will decide its view on the application.