The proposal is to convert a section of the grade 2 listed former school buildings and construct new residential accommodation in the grounds of the existing abbey, whilst retaining facilities for the monks on the remaining section of the site.

The existing listed former school buildings will be converted into 33 individual flats of a varying size and character. The apartments will have all the internal spaces required for a modern flat combined with interior form that retains, restores and takes full advantage of the existing fabric, including double height living spaces in the former refectory and dining hall.

The design approach for the new residential accommodation is to form enclosed courtyards or greens surrounded by two and three storey buildings of a similar language but modest variety. This reflects the character of the court, cloister and chamber buildings seen at many English colleges and schools, and will provide a total of 29 new flats and 15 new houses. Open amenity areas are provided within the site and on an adjoining reclaimed and landscaped meadow. The proposal is consistent with current planning guidelines for brown field site use, density and open space. Landscape planning and design was carried out by CPM Enviromental Planning & Design.