In a bid to diversify farmland in Ulverston (England), a proposal for six new glamping pods has been submitted for approval.
According to a report, applicant Ian Wilson of Low Flan Farm hopes to generate more income for the farm and create more tourist revenue for the region.
The proximity of the Town Bank Road site to the Lake District and the Furness coast means that the development would attract those from the UK and overseas, as per the applicant.
The farm consists of 29 hectares of land surrounding the farm’s buildings. Stocking is 35-40 breeding cattle and beef stock. There are also breeder ewes of 95-100 breeding raising 100-130 lambs.
The Design and Access statement said that the area is elevated but will be well screened with native hardwoods and fruit trees, together with native hedgerow planting.
It is proposed to provide only one parking space to each pod as it is anticipated that visitors will be small family groups or couples traveling together.
For occasional visitors arriving in two cars, sensible parking on the grass will be possible. In addition to the pods, there will be a small timber-framed slate-roofed building housing recycling and domestic waste bins, as per the Design and Access statement.
“This will be managed and cleared by the owners/managers in liaison with SLDC refuse collections.”
“It is intended to have the pod lettings all year due to the accessibility and popularity of the area with tourists.”
The applicant believes that nature lovers will want to visit the region because of the abundant wildlife.
“The site area lends itself to the provision of bug hotels and beehives, which will complement the tree, hedge, and meadow planting. This will ensure that many insects and birds will be attracted to and thrive in the area,” a report said.
“The hives will only be in the new orchard away from the main site to ensure that they are not tampered with by guests and will only be maintained and operated by properly experienced apiarists/beekeepers. Honey will be available if plentiful to the owners, guests, and visitors.”
The South Lakeland District Council Planning Committee has not yet decided on the application.