Fenland farm seeks to diversify into tourism
Redundant farm buildings are set to be demolished and replaced with what the developer hopes will be a new tourist venue in Fenland.
An application has been submitted for a change of use from agricultural land to the provision of hardstandings for six shepherd huts for use in connection with tourism on a site at Daintree Farm off Upwell Road in March.
A design and access statement drawn up in support of the application by George Heys of Helpston near Peterborough, explains the current agricultural buildings on the site are redundant and some of them are in a derelict state because they have not been needed for farming for “many years”.
Each of the six huts will have its own private outdoor space and allocated parking space, and there will also be four overflow parking spaces provided.
The statement, which has been prepared by Arc Survey and Design Consultants, points out the farm is over 45 hectares and the area that forms the application site is 1,900 sqm.
It says the plots have been designed to allow the huts to benefit from a mostly southwest aspect, and therefore will enjoy the afternoon and evening sun. Each plot will have its own hedging to provide privacy between them.
The huts will accommodate two people each and have a private outdoor sititng area. A decision on the final appearance of the huts will be made once the application has been approved.
The statement points out the site is six miles from the proposed new Fens reservoir, which will offer leisure activities once it is built and adds that the Fenland District Council’s policy is to support the tourism and visitor industry.
And it goes on to say: “Development of rural tourism is also generally supported as a means of diversification of farming activities.”
It concludes: “The proposed development is in accordance with planning policy, will contribute positively to the local area, providing additional tourist accommodation facilities, would contribute to the local economy and is therefore suitable for the proposed location.”
