A TIME-SERVED cabinet maker is hoping proposed development plans will meet with approval so he can start an exciting new chapter in his woodworking career.
Phillip Bastow submitted plans this month to Durham County Council to develop a property he is currently buying at Marwood, near Barnard Castle, so he can run his business making bespoke furniture and offer woodworking sessions within the dale.
“We looked at lots of property over the last few years,” said Mr Bastow, who up until August last year had a 6,000 square foot purpose built workshop in the heart of Reeth.
“I wanted somewhere I could live and work and have the opportunity to teach more and Viewforth, fitted the bill.”
His development plans include the demolition of an existing corrugated metal shed, replacing it with a timber clad workshop, upgrading and improving an existing field access for vehicular access, provision of a parking area and subsequent tree planting. Also included in the development proposal is the construction a detached garage, an implement store and siting for four residential camping pods.
“Hopefully if the planners are in favour, I will be able to get started on the build by the first week of August and should be in a position to start courses before the end of the year,” said Mr Bastow.
“Getting the workshop up and running is the priority. The camping pods are for the future.”
The idea to site camping pods on land adjacent to the house are part of a longer term plan to offer residential wood working courses once the workshop is up and running.
“I’ve run many courses in the past. However they were usually on a night,” added Mr Bastow, who retired as a volunteer fire fighter in the North Yorkshire service after 29 years, the last ten of which he was watch manager.
Mr Bastow said he is in the initial stages of organising the workshops, which will be from beginner through to expert level.
He said: “Every kind of skill I can think of I will teach. From choosing the right wood to work with, help with joints, turning or assistance finishing a project. I just want to help people love wood as much as I do.”
