Plans to convert a barn into a permanent wedding venue in the Lake District in a bid to secure the long term future of a farm are set to be given the go-ahead.
Members of the development control committee for the Lake District National Park Authority are recommended to approve plans to transform the barn at Rydal Farm.
According to planning documents, the building is not suitable for modern agriculture as it neither provided adequate housing for animals under current standards, nor did it have suitable access for modern farm machinery.
There are more suitable agricultural buildings on the farm and the building had not been in use for agricultural purposes for many years, planning documents added.
The planning and heritage statement said: “As with most farming operations, particularly in the Lake District, there is a need to generate additional income to support the ongoing farming operations.
“The Hodgsons are keen to ensure that any scheme to provide additional income would not comprise the ongoing operation of the farm.”
The Hodgsons farm sheep and beef, both of which systems remain under pressure with the continuing reduction in Government subsidy since the UK withdrew from the EU, the planning statement added.
Plans showed the proposed development involves no significant alterations being made to the building which has already hosted weddings with up to 160 guests in attendance.
The applicant has proposed noise control measures which include:
- All entertainment using amplified music must take place inside the barn and not beyond midnight.
- All doors and windows closed when music is played within the venue.
- Patrons are to be reminded of the presence of neighbours and of the need to minimise disturbance when leaving the premises.
- Applicant will provide contact details to 1-3 Rydal Farm Cottages and the Crow How Hotel which can be used in the case of any noise or other issues occurring.
- Staff to greet all vehicles on the day of the event as they arrive on site.
- All deliveries pre-arranged and managed with staff.
In recommending approval, planning officers said: “The use of Rydal Farm as a wedding venue could have a detrimental impact on local amenity and character, by reason of the activities associated with the use and in particular vehicles, and the noise arising from guests, in an otherwise quiet and tranquil setting.
“However the mitigation measures proposed would reduce the impacts of the development to an acceptable level. The proposal would also provide diversification to an existing agricultural business.”
The application will be discussed by members of the development control committee at Murley Moss in Kendal on July 3.
