A MONMOUTHSHIRE property developer has pleaded guilty to altering the character of the Grade II-listed building which inspired the hymn 'All Things Bright And Beautiful'.

Kim Gregory Davies, 60, of Llanwenarth House, in Abergavenny, pleaded guilty to five offences under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.

He is accused of making unauthorised alterations to Llanwenarth House, in Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, over a five year period.

Newport Crown Court yesterday heard the offences took place between June 25, 2007, and August 18, 2012.

Llanwenarth House was built in the late 16th century and became a Grade II-listed building in 1956 because of its national importance.

The manor is under authority of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority (BPNPA) where Irish composer Cecil Alexander is thought to have written the lyrics to the famous hymn.

It was owned for centuries by the famous Morgan family, ancestors of the navy admiral and privateer Sir Henry Morgan.

Representing the prosecution during Monday’s hearing was Nicholas Haggan QC.

Counts one and two related to works carried out on the exterior of the listed building which included the removal of windows and doors to install modern replacements, affecting its character, without approval in writing from the BPNPA.

Count three dealt with the interior of the building, where unauthorised works carried out included the removal of skirting boards and fireplaces as well as the removal of "unique features."

Count four concerned the coach house where a metal staircase had been installed. Count five concerned the courtyard where modern flagstones had been installed. QC George Carter Stevenson representing Davies said the case was all about trying to get the house back "into a condition that is acceptable. "

"Mr Davies accepts that he must take steps to put the house back into proper order," he said.

He proposed Davies negotiates with the BPNPA to restore the features that need to be restored.

Judge Daniel Williams adjourned the sentence until May 15. The defendant was released on bail.