LUXURY housebuilder Searchfield Homes, based in Farnham, has been ‘highly commended’ in the Evening Standard New Homes Awards 2017 for its restoration of Grade II-listed Heron Court in The Bourne.

Heron Court, at the junction of Ford Lane and Aveley Lane, is thought to date from the 18th century, when it was used for storing hops grown on the banks of the Bourne stream as part of Farnham’s once thriving brewing industry.

The building, which forms part of the older Bourne Farm, was acquired by property developer Andrew Searchfield, of Searchfield Homes, following the death of its elderly occupant - and a lengthy planning process ensued after councillors objected to plans for two new homes in the grounds of the historic building.

However, revised plans for a solitary, five-bedroom new home were eventually granted planning permission, and Searchfield Homes later overturned Waverley’s refusal of a new access in Aveley Lane at appeal.

Heron Court has since been restored and made “fit for 21st century living”, and the new owners have now moved in.

In recognition of the quality of the restoration of the historic hop house, late last month it was confirmed that Searchfield Homes has been ‘highly commended’ in the Best Residential Conversion category of this year’s Evening Standard awards.

CEO Andrew Searchfield said: “Heron Court is a fascinating house with a long history, that deserved to have a family living within its walls again. I’m delighted to have our work recognised by the Evening Standard awards and to know that the future of Heron Court is secured for the next 100 years or more.”

The judges commented: “This Highly Commended award is for a very inspiring conversion of a listed property, achieved under very difficult circumstances.”