Site Event/Activity record ECH7069 - Beechfield, Cuddington, Cheshire: Heritage Statement

A heritage assessment was produced in 2017 for Beechfield, Cuddington, in advance of proposed redevelopment including demolition of existing structures. The document provides a summary of the historical development of Beechfield and its surroundings, coupled with a statement of the site’s significance. Beechfield is a locally listed, early 20th century mansion house and lodge, which was converted during the late 20th century for use as an independent residential special school, named Lambs Grange and later the I-Map Centre. It is an example of the Vernacular Revival style of architecture which was popular in mid-Cheshire at the turn of the 20th century when many industrialists and businessmen built homes in this area. Some of these large houses were designed by the celebrated local architect John Douglas, whose family came from Sandiway. A number of those that were not, such as Beechfield, were influenced by his architectural approach. The site has some historical interest as one of several properties built in the early 20th century by the Thompson Salt Manufacturing family of Northwich. Beechfield was built for Henry Ingram Thomas, owner of the Lion Salt Works in Marston, which is now a museum. A visual inspection of the property has established that while the exterior of Beechfield largely retains its original appearance, its interior was subject to much alteration during conversion to a residential school in the late 20th century. The conversion has resulted in the loss of most of the original fixtures and fittings. (1)