Huhne calls for greater protection for Allbrook Farmhouse

9.00.00pm GMT Fri 29th Feb 2008

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne has urged the new Secretary of State for Culture to upgrade the protection afforded to Allbrook Farmhouse, on the outskirts of Eastleigh.

In a letter to Andy Burnham, the new Secretary of State, Mr Huhne called for Allbrook Farmhouse, once home to the 17th century artist Mary Beale, to be given Grade II* status.

Commenting, Mr Huhne said "Allbrook Farmhouse is of great national historic significance, and it is vital that the building and surrounding land are adequately protected to safeguard them for future generations".

"I very much hope that the new Secretary of State will look at this with fresh eyes and upgrade the listing".