The Kent-based architects' proposals for a new 1,439m2 workshop and museum for rocking horse maker the Stevenson Brothers has secured approval from Ashford Borough Council. Councillors unanimously backed the plans.Hollaway submitted two applications for the site in Bethersden, High Halden: one for a new museum, a workshop and 22 homes south of the village; and a separate application for nine homes to replace existing work spaces.The new workshop and museum includes a caf, farm shop and views of the rocking horse making process.AdvertisementThe existing workshop in the village, south west of Ashford town centre, will be demolished to make way for nine affordable one and two-bed flats in two three-storey buildings on a 0.1ha plot.The practice told the AJ that the 6.8 ha museum and workshop site was an opportunity to demonstrate [the] genuine craftmanship of the 40-year-old firm, which made rocking horses for the late Queen.Hollaway added that the housing provision would enable the redevelopment of the Stevenson Brothers workshop. The scheme also brings all parts of the manufacturing process together on one site alongside new homes and associated landscaping, biodiversity gains and landscaping improvements.Hollaways schemes were recommended for approval by Ashford council ahead of committee, with planning officers saying they would deliver an addition to the councils 5 Year Housing supply, which it cannot currently demonstrate.The planning report added the homes represented a social benefit that would contribute to the governments target to significantly boost the supply of homes [and] Such homes would be affordable which would address the needs of groups with specific housing requirements.AdvertisementLast year, Hollaway Studios 17 million F51 skatepark in Folkestone was crowned the best new building in the RIBAs South East region.