56 Green End Road Kempston Rural

56 Green End Road March 2012

56 Green End Road was listed by English Heritage in August 1987 as Grade II. It dates from the 17th century “with 20th century alterations” and is timber-framed and rendered with colourwashed cement. It comprises two storeys beneath a clay tiled roof . The porch is 20th century and a one storey flat roofed extension stands at the right-hand side.

The Rating and Valuation Act 1925 specified that every building and piece of land in the country was to be assessed to determine its rateable value. The valuer visiting the cottage [DV1/C35/36] found it owned by Mrs. Newland of Kempston House and occupied by J. Harris who was her gardener.

Accommodation comprised a living room and a kitchen with three bedrooms above. A “big” barn and an earth closet stood outside. Water came from a tap 180 yards away. Despite this handicap the valuer commented: “Very pleasant house and garden”. Another hand has written: “Very attractive, a weekend type”.