Renovation project delayed in bid to save greenhouse

Renovation of a historic building in Croxley Green, Hertfordshire has been delayed to protect its greenhouses.

The postponement was agreed by the Three Rivers District Council development control committee to protect the structures on the site of Little Gillions, the Watford Observer reports.

Developer Andrew Ryde applied for permission to demolish several buildings, including a Victorian greenhouse which he intended to rebuild to a simpler specification.

However, councillor Amrit Mediratta asked why this was necessary, when the original could be restored.

A site visit is planned, after which a final decision will be made.

Council leader Ann Shaw said the buildings are very rare and their Victorian features need to be cherished.

"These greenhouses have been here 130 years and they deserve another month," she added.

Century old photographs of Batsford Arboretum in Gloucestershire were found recently by the granddaughter of the former head gardener, shedding light on its forgotten histor