A new glamping operation and dedicated dog-walking facility have been approved at an equestrian site in Ickleford, Hertfordshire, allowing the farm to diversify its existing business while retaining its current equestrian use.
North Herts Council approved plans for Lower Green Farm that will introduce five shepherd huts, a secure dog exercise field, new fencing, an access road, and parking. The development is intended to create an additional income stream for the equestrian facility and contribute to the rural economy.
“The proposal seeks a change of use to provide a secure dog walking and exercising facility within the northern section of the field, together with a glamping site comprising five shepherd huts within the southern field,” the plans state.
“This diversification would provide the applicants with an additional income stream to support the ongoing upkeep and operation of the existing equestrian facility.
“The concept of linking glamping with equestrian activities – including the potential for visitors to ‘bring your horse on holiday’ – enhances the suitability of this location and supports the rural economy.”
The five shepherd huts will operate seasonally from March through October, with the units moved off-site during the remainder of the year. According to the application, the huts will use natural, muted colors and traditional materials intended to reduce their visual impact within the rural setting.
Landscaping will also form part of the development, according to The Comet. New trees, shrubs, and hedgerows are planned to provide screening around the accommodation and improve privacy. Additional hedging will be installed around the dog-walking field to help soften the appearance of the proposed 1.8-meter deer-style fencing.
The dog exercise area is expected to operate through an hourly booking system, while the five-unit glamping operation is intended to keep activity at the site relatively limited. The applicants also identified the site’s proximity to tourism destinations as a potential factor supporting the diversification, including Hitchin Lavender and the planned Universal Studios park near Bedford.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the project illustrates one approach to adding accommodation to an existing rural business without relying solely on overnight stays as a standalone operation.
Combining glamping with an established equestrian facility could create opportunities to serve visitors with specific interests while using existing land and infrastructure. The seasonal operation also provides a way for the business to limit the period during which the accommodation is in use.
North Herts Council approved the application subject to conditions concerning construction, access, parking, and the continued availability of a public right of way.
The decision notice states: “Prior to the commencement of development, and for the duration of construction and thereafter, Public Bridleway Ickleford 004 shall remain unobstructed and available for use at all times.
“Prior to first occupation of the shepherds huts and prior to the first use of the dog walking field by members of the public of the development hereby permitted, the vehicular parking and turning areas shown on the approved plans shall be laid out, surfaced, and made available for each use.”
The approval allows the Lower Green Farm proposal to proceed subject to the council’s conditions, with the shepherd huts planned for seasonal operation beginning in March.
