PLANS to demolish a former coaching house in historic Kirkleatham village, near Redcar, have been withdrawn after opposition from local councillors and residents.

West Lodge, which is thought to date back to the late 18th Century, was used to store and repair horse-drawn carts and later converted into a residence.

Redcar and Cleveland Council, which owns the building, had proposed demolishing it due to continued vandalism and arson attempts, leading to concerns about safety.

An online petition calling for West Lodge to be saved was subsequently raised by the group Friends of Redcar – attracting more than 300 signatures.

The group said the property was of “significant historical value” and it could be renovated and put to a community or heritage use.

A council spokesman said it had listened to the objections and withdrawn plans for demolition to “allow further reflection and debate”.

Another council-owned building on the estate, The Paddock, which is a dormer bungalow  built in the 1960s and later used as a day centre by social services, has also been spared from demolition for now despite being in a poor condition.

One member of the public, who responded to a consultation over the council plans, had claimed barn owls were nesting in the bungalow.

Kirkleatham ward councillor Leah Quartermain, an organiser with the Friends of Redcar, said: “Along with many other local people, I was alarmed when I saw this building up for demolition. 

“Being 18th Century it was most likely the last of its type when Sir Charles Turner was around and began his ‘emparkment’ work by clearing away ‘wretched hovels’ to relocate villagers to nearby Yearby and Coatham. 

“We have received kind offers of support from builders, construction and surveyors, as well as much interest from residents and volunteers who want to help and so I’d like to express my thanks for all the interest shown. 

“I am sure together we can turn this around and prevent the needless loss of this historic building.”

Campaigners hope West Lodge could be designated as a ‘community asset’.

A number of uses have been suggested including supporting community activities, a base for conservation planning, hosting educational workshops establishing the history of the village, and acting as a signpost and starting point for visitors to Kirkleatham.

The council spokesman said: “The beautiful and historic Kirkleatham village is of national importance and exciting plans to improve the estate and release its huge potential for tourism will continue. 

“Following the recent multi-million pound redevelopment of the magnificent former walled garden, consideration was given to potentially demolish two vacant and dilapidated council owned properties that have been the focus for some anti-social behaviour and over time could present safety issues. 

“Applications for planning permission to demolish the properties were made, but the authority has listened to concerns raised locally and as a result has withdrawn those applications to allow further reflection and debate by residents and other local groups who may bring forward alternative proposals for consideration. 

“The council will continue to engage with interested groups and individuals about the right way forward.”