Calbourne Farm to Offer Glamping Experience

In an effort to diversify the revenue of a farm which was previously an outdoor learning facility, treehouses for glamping have been proposed at New Barn Farm on Sun Hill, Calbourne Road (United Kingdom).

As per a report, the plans were submitted by Wild Wight Glamping, which calls for five top-quality modern treehouses to be constructed on the fringes of the former Christmas tree plantation at the farm.

Development agents, BCM, said that with the knowledge that EU agricultural subsidies will be lifted and no clear indication for a UK equivalent, the farm has to diversify to generate sustainable streams of income that will improve its overall performance.

In the planning documents submitted to Isle of Wight Council, the developers declared that the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty will be protected, with the units set in the surroundings and further enhanced by landscaping.

Calbourne Parish Council has raised no objection to the project, subject to the new planting taking place before the units are fully occupied and compliance with the dark skies policy.

One of the main concerns addressed by the parish council was the use of the units in the course of a shoot. The council also called for speed reduction in this area of Sun Hill to 40mph.

Island Roads has recommended the application be denied on two grounds due to the lack of visibility for access and pedestrian accessibility.

The highway authority has stated that the project is likely to promote private car use and deter travel by more sustainable methods of transport because of the site’s location, thus creating the possibility of conflict between motorists and pedestrians on Sun Hill.

Planners pointed out that buses run through Sun Hill once an hour, reducing the need for private vehicles.

This story originally appeared on Isle of Wight County Press.