A renewed planning application has been submitted to retain a controversial polytunnel and shepherd’s hut in Cockfield.
County planners last year rejected a request for retrospective permission from the owners of Cockfield Hall Farm, based on archaeological impact and the harm it caused to neighbouring listed buildings.
The county council’s archaeological department complained works might have destroyed evidence of Cockfield Hall’s moat, which is a non-designated heritage asset.
However, the owners argued the polytunnel is needed to offer temporary accommodation for animals during lambing season. They also argue the shepherd’s hut is needed to make the farm more financially viable by bringing in tourist accommodation.
Cockfield Parish Council heard at its latest meeting that the decision on the application would be taken by a planning committee rather than by officers.
County councillor for the village Jill Campbell said: “They are having another stab at it.
“They have resubmitted the application, but they are now applying for temporary permission.”
If approved the structures would be in place for 10 years, according to the latest application.
Cllr Campbell said: I have asked it to be called into committee because I think there is quite a lot to go through with it – I don’t think it was properly done the first time.
“I am going to put their position as best I can. I am supporting them.
“Looking at the original planning decision I think that it quite exaggerated the harm and impact and I think also they didn’t take into account it isn’t going to be viable for them if they can’t get permission.”
However, parish councillor David Britton did not agree.
He said: “They shifted at least 200 tonnes of soil from a protected area. They have dismantled a building to put a polytunnel up, which is bright white. For a start the colour should be changed. The amount of earth that they moved and filled in an ancient moat, is criminal.
“They dug a lake – how do they dig a lake without shifting soil?
“There is one thing for certain, if it starts affecting my view and everybody else’s view, there are going to be objections. I think it is ridiculous.”
The parish council did not take a decision to either support or object to the application.
