The change of use will see the Margary Building, a 1970s structure besides Anne of Cleves House in Lewes, transformed into a creative hub.
This standalone annex, which has been vacant for some time, is located on Southover High Street in Lewes.
The building is part of the grounds of the Grade II* listed Anne of Cleves House, but is now set to be subdivided from the main site.
The Margary Building in the garden of Anne of Cleves House (Image: Pam Fray)
Anne of Cleves House, dating back as early as the 14th century, serves as a museum and occasionally hosts functions like weddings.
The Margary Building, once used by the Sussex Archaeological Society as a museum store and office, has stood redundant for over four years. It was constructed in the 1970s primarily for storage purposes.
Sir John Tomlinson, an opera singer with over five decades of experience, is the man behind the application.
His vision for the space includes a classical music studio, where singing training and classes will take place.
The site can be accessed through a gate between Anne of Cleves House and 53 Southover High Street (Image: Google)
Additionally, he plans to open the venue to a range of cultural, creative arts, and crafts purposes.
The building will also double as a performance and studio space, and a workshop for artists.
Internally, the ground floor will be modified into a multi-purpose music studio.
Sir Tomlinson, who owns both the Margary Building and another property on Southover High Street, will be closely involved in the studio’s operations.
Soundproofing measures are also part of the proposal, ensuring minimal disturbance to the surrounding areas.
The plans received the “strong backing” of the Friends of Lewes Society, who felt the proposal would “enable this building to be used for community use, which would both complement and enhance the adjacent Anne of Cleves House”.
Anne of Cleves House on Southover Street in Lewes (Image: Wayland Smith)
Local authority conversation officers also approved, writing: “The proposal will allow the building to be repurposed as a new community-centred musical and creative hub.
“The proposed modifications and amendments are not considered harmful to the significance of the primary listed building, or the immediate and wider setting.”
The plans were approved by the South Downs National Park Authority on December 9.
They can be viewed using the reference SDNP/25/03646/FUL.
Sir John Tomlinson is an English operatic bass singer, who performs regularly with the Royal Opera and English National Opera. He was knighted in 2005.