RENOVATIONS under way at an 18th Century farmstead in Hanley Swan will mean employment and a boost for the local economy, according to its owner.

Ian Thompson bought Cygnet Lodge in December 2000 is refurbishing buildings at the site to provide office space for four companies to move into the area.

He has just submitted a planning application to Malvern Hills District Council for permission to change an 18th Century barn into a 21st Century conference centre.

Mr Thompson, who has lived in Hanley Swan for 17 years and runs software company IT Systems from the site, said the development would provide employment and opportunities.

"All of this brings income into the village," he said.

"There will undoubtedly be opportunities for local employment. That's the point of doing this."

Weighing software company Pac Software, wedding supplier Big Events UK and a building product importer specialising in locks and handles have all expressed firm interest in occupying offices at the site.

Despite the fact the buildings are not listed, Mr Thompson wishes to keep the original brick and tile format and has hired architect Tim Rowe, of Mathon firm Harcourt Design Associates, to oversee the work.

Mr Rowe said the challenge of retaining the original feel of the buildings while accommodating the needs of modern-day companies was an interesting one.

"We're trying to give the building a new lease of life but ensure it's still in keeping with its original usage," he said. "It will therefore be retained for future generations to look at and say 'that's how a small group of farm buildings were'."

Mr Thompson also paid tribute to the part played by MHDC planning officer Duncan Rudge in helping decide how to develop the site.