Listen to CT Planning’s Chris Timothy expressing his views on the National Planning Policy Framework consultation on BBC’s Farming Today.
For more thoughts on the subject read his recent article – Proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework
JF & BM Gray, is a family run agricultural enterprise, based at Sheepwash Farm, Whittington, Staffordshire. The farm comprises some 900 hectares, the majority of which is in Green Belt.
CT Planning have assisted JF & BM Gray in obtaining planning permission for the change of use of a portal framed agricultural building to a children’s day nursery.
The children’s nursery was introduced into the building without any need for extension or significant alteration. New windows and door openings together with a first floor have been inserted. The scheme was promoted on the basis that it maintained the agricultural character of the building whilst safeguarding the openness of the Green Belt.
The nursery has brought benefits to the local economy, provided local employment whilst providing for a children’s nursery within walking distance of Whittington. The proposal was entirely consistent with Government and Local Planning Policies concerned with rural diversification and the re-use of buildings in Green Belt.
The children’s nursery is part of a wide range of diversification projects that have been undertaken at Sheepwash Farm. CT Planning has also assisted in obtaining planning permission for diversification projects that include a 500kw/60-metre wind turbine, a solar array, a fishing lodge, as well as the erection of stables and the change of use of agricultural land to equestrian use.
Category: Rural
Location: Thorpe Constantine, Staffordshire
Thorpe Estate, Staffordshire, is a working estate with long agricultural history that has been stewarded by the same family since 1631. Alongside the country house, Thorpe Hall, is a collection of charming Victorian farm buildings and a range of modern agricultural buildings based around Home Farm, in addition to an attractive walled garden that had fallen into disrepair. Without a viable use for the space, the upkeep of the walled garden, bothy, and attendant glasshouses had become a liability.
Working with the estate and the Lichfield District Council’s Conservation Officer, CT Planning had secured planning permission and Listed Building Consent to create an attractive wedding venue. Operated by locally renowned wedding venue specialists, Cripps & Co, the walled garden now provides:
CT Planning continues to work alongside the estate and their partners and has recently secured planning permission to convert Home Farm into overnight accommodation to cater for the increasing demands of the wedding market.
Ongoing master planning of the estate continues to enhance the experience of guests, the setting of the historic estate and to further advance alternative enterprises for this busy rural estate.
