Low Flan Farm, Ulverston, to install six glamping pods

South Lakeland District Council has granted permission to Low Flan Farm, around 800 metres north of Ulverston, to build six of the pods, along with an access road, orchard, and other landscaping in an open field, forming part of the farm.

The application's Design and Access Statement said: "This application is for the development of 0.32 hectares of agricultural land at Low Flan farm to accommodate six pods for holiday let as part of a farm diversification project. 

LANDSCAPE: The overall plans for the new development

"The project will add to the farm income and add tourism revenue to the area. 

"The proximity of the farm to the Lake District and the Furness coast will ensure that the project will be of interest to people from the UK and overseas."

As for the pods, the statement says: "The pods are commercially available factory-built units by a local provider. 

"They are 6.7 metres long, 3.8 metres wide and 2.9 metres high.

"They comprise of a small kitchen, shower room with WC, bedroom, and seating area that doubles as a sofa bed. 

"There is a dining area and a small external veranda/seating area."

The application was approved despite SLDC's general policy against the development of open countryside as the pod complex would form part of, and support the existing farm business, which has made 'modest profits' for the last five years.

BUSINESS: Low Flan Farm is a working enterprise

The landscaping will include: "Fruit trees including apple, pear and damson/plum. 

"The intention is that the guests can take the fruit for their own use whilst staying on the site, and the farm will also take the fruit."

The development will also provide a net biodiversity gain, with wildflower meadow planting, bug hotels and hives, hedgerow planting, and tree planting.

Approval was granted on the condition that said planting takes place before the site is operational.

READ MORE: Decision on glamping site made as residents turn out to object

During the public consultation, one response was given from a neigbour of Dalton Lane, stating: "I own a business in Ulverston Town Centre - I am in favor of this development. 

"Not only is it great for the environment to be planting all these trees etc but the pods will bring much-needed tourism and footfall into the town centre, benefitting our local economy. 

"Also, accommodation availability is lacking in Ulverston, especially around the festival calendar. 

"This is much needed and will be a great asset to our town centre."