Nestled in the shadows of The House of Marbles, it would be easy to miss the former pottery buildings at Soby Mews. The area is well known for its historical importance, with the kilns at the local attraction classified as ancient monuments. What is perhaps lesser known is the new lease of life these buildings will soon be given.
Sitting back from Pottery Road, the former pottery dates as far back as the mid to late 19th century, when this former Victorian workshop was set up by William Mead. His success and that of the pottery industry in the area supported the economic prosperity of Bovey at the time, and even enabled the funding of a new railway line in the area in 1866.
The visible signs of history are still clear within the old workshops even today with the buildings enveloping rails of the former tramway, original brick floors and pivot windows. KACH, a local developer, was keen to acquire the site not just for its good location but also as part of the local community, they were keen to ensure the buildings were lovingly restored and the redevelopment of the site was both fitting and conservative.
KACH have been working to restore the workshops since July this year, when the existing windows were removed and new slate cills installed. The repairs to the trusses are ongoing which has involved strengthening the structure with new timber sections to match the existing rafters.
the redevelopment of the site which will see a collection of 2 bed houses and apartments built as well as a variety of 3 bedroom houses
There are still a number of months work required to fully restore the workshops and the redevelopment of the site which will see a collection of 2 bed houses and apartments built as well as a variety of 3 bedroom houses in addition to some commercial space. The developer has ensured that each of the homes will be finished to fit perfectly in the mature tree-lined area with features such as natural slate on the roofs, grey Georgian pane windows and Oak front doors; even the road will be painstakingly paved with small charcoal bricks to stay in keeping with the previous brick lanes.
To find out more about the redevelopment of Soby Mews you can contact Complete at their local office in the town by calling 01626 832063 or by emailing sobymews@completeproperty.co.uk