North Yorkshire Council has approved the conversion of four barn structures at Graffitoe Farm into holiday cottages, marking a development for rural tourism in the area. The project, proposed by Ben Emmerson, aims to repurpose disused farm buildings near Filey, enhancing local tourism offerings while supporting farm diversification.
Graffitoe Farm, located off Bridlington Road in Hunmanby, has already diversified its operations, now serving residential purposes and operating as a touring caravan and camping site. This latest approval aligns with the growing importance of rural tourism in North Yorkshire’s economy.
The farm is in close proximity to a recently approved tourism site featuring five touring caravan pitches and an equal number of camping pods. According to the council’s assessment, the outbuildings slated for conversion are “structurally sound” and require minimal renovations. Planning officers noted that no extensions were proposed, and the changes would not “detract” from the rural setting.
To maintain the project’s tourism focus, the council has imposed specific conditions. The holiday cottages must remain in the ownership of the adjacent farm and are strictly designated for holiday letting, not for use as permanent dwellings. This measure aims to protect the living conditions and environment of surrounding occupiers and ensure the development remains a tourism venture.
The development received no objections from key stakeholders, including Hunmanby Parish Council, the Highway Authority, and the council’s environmental health team. No public comments were received during the approval process.
A notable aspect of this approval is its potential to contribute to year-round tourism. While the nearby caravan and camping site typically operates seasonally, the new holiday cottages are designed for all-year-round use. The council’s report highlights this benefit, stating, “There is an increasing trend for winter holidays especially over the Christmas and New Year periods, and the development will therefore aid the reduction of the seasonal nature of tourism.
This project demonstrates how rural areas can adapt to changing economic landscapes while preserving their essential character. With the official approval granted, the region is set to welcome visitors eager to experience the countryside in converted farm accommodations, offering a diverse range of options for tourists exploring North Yorkshire’s rural charm.
