In the words of the current residents of Cherry Tree Farm in Rostherne, it's quite simply priceless.

But landowners Monckton Properties have decided the conversion of a majestic farmhouse - to executive offices - could be worth a lot more than mere sentiment.

When asked if it would be more financially viable than keeping the property residential, a spokesman for Monckton Properties said: "Of course it would."

"We thought that in the position the house was in, close to the motorway, it had limited appeal from a residential point of view."

But the residents at the farm, who asked not to be named, told the Knutsford Guardian they were more than happy with their hillside location.

"The motorway doesn't bother us one little bit," said the man.

"In the summer time you wouldn't even know there was a road here. You feel a millions miles from nowhere."

The man has lived with his wife and son in the nine-bedroomed house for two years on a short-term lease, and is now resigned to the changes happening at the estate.

"We know we have just got to enjoy it while we've got it, but can you really imagine someone working with a view like this?" said his wife.

Just across the yard derelict barns are being renovated for office space, a move that meant the tenant giving up eight horses - and a pot-bellied pig.

"We couldn't sell them, so we had to give them away in the end," he said.

"Our pig, Smokey, was like a pal of the family. He used to talk to us."

Last week, Monckton Properties' plans for the offices were refused by borough planners.

The company has yet to decide if it will appeal.

For now, at least, the tenants are sitting pretty.

"With the permission of the landlord we would love to remain here forever," he said.