A New Life For Godmanchester Landmark

One of Godmanchester's leading landmarks - the former Crossing Keeper's Cottage in Bridge Place - could be given a new lease of life.

The cottage has been subjected to repeated vandalism in recent years and has fallen into disrepair. Now the new owners are planning to convert the Grade II listed cottage to offices and restore all its original features.

Sureterm Direct, one of Godmanchester's leading employers, is also planning a stunning glass extension to the building which will rejuvenate the entire plot of land around the cottage.

Godmanchester Town Council has already agreed to the application to change the use of the building from 'residential' to 'commercial' use.

Sue Hessom, General Manager of Sureterm Direct, said: "Crossing Keeper's Cottage is an amazing building, but it had been allowed to fall into a complete state of disrepair before we bought it in April. It was unloved and had simply become a playground for vandals.

"At the moment it is an eyesore, but our plans to restore the cottage to its original beauty will breathe new life into the building. Our proposed extension, which will create additional office space, will also help to transform the location into something of which Godmanchester can be proud.

"We are aware that there are some objections to our plans. But we are surprised that some people would rather see the building sit there in rack and ruin than allow us to do something special with it.

"Councillors and local residents can rest assured that our plans are sympathetic and totally in keeping with the surroundings."

Huntingdonshire District Council will debate the planning application on Monday, December 17.

Sureterm Direct is one of the UK's leading specialist insurance companies and employs 72 people at its offices at Bridge Place, opposite the Crossing Keeper's Cottage.

Over 72,000 valued policyholders have used the company since it was launched in the town in 1998.