Go-ahead for Newport farm to become wedding venue
A Newport farm is set to diversify into becoming the backdrop for weddings and events after plans were given the go-ahead.
Under the plans, a new boathouse will be created at Cheswell Grange, with owners hoping it will provide a fresh income stream for the farm.
The proposals were granted permission by Telford & Wrekin Council's planning officers, who said the site could allow for as many as 200 guests to some events.
Case officer, Matthew Thomas, said: "The applicants, Neil and Susanna Harley, have recently taken over the farming operation at Cheswell Grange and are looking for opportunities to diversify the farm operation by turning the application site into a venue for weddings and other similar social functions and events.
"While the agricultural business will continue to be the primary means of income for the applicants and their family, the proposed use of the land for these purposes will introduce a secondary source of income to support this established agricultural operation.
"Such additional income will contribute towards the long-term viability of the farm and provide the applicants with an alternative business that can be relied upon in years where the farming income may have been below expectations, for example, in a year where crop yields are poor."
Mr and Mrs Harley, in their application, said the site was a "very attractive piece of land " and would make a "desirable location for social functions, in particular weddings".
Along with the creation of a boathouse, owners will put up a marquee as a "central venue" for the events.
In documents supporting the application, Simon Handy of Strutt and Parker, said: "It is important for the proposal and the working farm to be separated from one another in terms of safety and to create a desirable environment for the weddings.
"As such, the conversion of one or more of the existing agricultural buildings was quickly discounted.
"The application site is a very attractive piece of land, albeit with little agricultural value, due to the location of the existing pond adjoining its southern edge and the secluded nature of the land.
"In other words, it will make a very desirable location for social functions, in particular weddings, which will be key to the success of the proposal.
"Due to the separation between the existing farmyard and the application site, it is apparent that no suitable buildings exist within close proximity that could be used for weddings and other functions.
"The applicants propose to use a first-rate marquee as the central venue for the social events. While the applicants intend to host events throughout the year, the temporary nature of the marquee will ensure that the structure does not have a lasting effect on the character or visual amenity of the local area."
