A BUILDING in an iconic Dorset street that featured in the famous Hovis bread TV ad has been brought back into use.
The formerly derelict cottage on Gold Hill, in Shaftesbury, featured in the renowned Hovis advert 50 years ago and has now been removed from Dorset Council’s at risk register.
The Grade II cottage, built in the 17th Century or early 18th Century had lain empty, unused and in disrepair for five years.
Dorset Council’s Housing Standards team, which specialises in bringing empty homes back into use, managed to trace the previous owner and explored possibilities for the cottage’s future.
The house before it was restored. Picture: Google
After the move, the house was sold in 2021, attracting national interest at an online property auction.
Working closely with the new owner, council officers have given tailored conservation advice and guided the restoration.
The council said the project recognises the history and heritage of the area and has preserved the site for future generations.
Owner Dexter Parsons has sensitively renovated the cottage, saving many original features.
He has used traditional building materials and techniques to preserve the historical fabric and make a home fit for modern living.
Before and after restoration work at the property in Gold Hill, Shaftesbury. Pictures: Dorset Council
“This renovation has been such a challenge, like nothing I have attempted before,” he said. “I’ve listened carefully to Dorset Council to get the right conservation advice about how the work should be completed.
“There’s a real community spirit in this part of Shaftesbury and it’s been a privilege to work here and rescue this building, hopefully for generations to come.”
Cllr David Walsh, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for planning, said: “This is a great example of the Dorset Council team working together to protect part of our rich historic environment. From finding an abandoned building, to getting renovations sensitively completed, the council has provided the kick start for private investment and enabled this success story.”
The house, in Gold Hill, Shaftesbury, was part of the iconic Hovis TV ad. Pictures: Dorset Council
And Cllr Jane Somper, portfolio holder for people, adult social care, health and housing, said the council was proud of the work.
“This case highlights how the council’s Housing Standards teamwork in many different ways, on all sorts of properties to bring empty homes back into productive use,” she said.
“In this case a listed building has been saved and a home created. We are proud of what the new owner has achieved here for the residents and visitors of Shaftesbury.”
Anyone carrying out restoration work in Dorset can get the advice of the council before starting work.
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