Vital Cockfield farm plans get go-ahead

A plea to keep a “vital” polytunnel and shepherd’s hut to secure the future of a Cockfield farm has been supported.

Restrospective plans for the structures at Cockfield Hall were approved by Durham County Council despite concerns over the archaeological impact and potential risk to neighbouring listed buildings.

The proposal also asked for a change of use from agricultural to holiday accommodation for the shepherd’s hut and approval of associated parking and hardstanding that had been installed.

County planners had initially rejected the application, but a new application was supported by Cllr Jill Campbell who asked that it be considered by committee rather than the decision being delegated to officers.

Joanne Bainbridge, the applicant, said the polytunnel provides shelter for animals, particularly during the lambing season, while the shepherd’s hut was set up to help diversify the farm and sustain the business.

She told the council: “The polytunnel and shepherd’s hut play a vital role in supporting the future of our family farm, improving animal welfare standards and helping to ensure that the business remains viable for future generations.”

Additional income from the overnight stays supports the maintenance of Cockfield Hall, which is a Grade II-listed building.

A total of 40 letters of support were received for the application, praising the impact on animal welfare, farm viability and tourism.

But the local authority’s planning department objected, warning that the polytunnel is “a visually intrusive and incongruous structure” while the shepherd’s hut is “poorly sited”, resulting in encroachment of the countryside.

Ms Bainbridge said the polytunnel was erected to replace a former pole barn that had been damaged beyond repair during severe storms.

Ms Bainbridge added: “The welfare of our sheep during lambing is our main priority.

“The design of the polytunnel provides a bright environment with natural light throughout the building, removing dark corners and making it easier to monitor livestock.”

Previous periods of poor weather had exposed shortcomings in existing accommodation and resulted in higher livestock losses than they would wish to experience again.

Councillors were told that the shepherd’s hut has proved popular with visitors, who frequently praised its rural setting, countryside views and proximity to the village.

County Durham’s tourism body had recognised the need for additional rural accommodation and supported the proposal.

The proposal was supported by Cllr Campbell, county councillor for Lower Teesdale, who said the impact on the area would not be as severe as described.

She said previous incorrect issues about moving earth did not form part of officers’ latest report, and county archaeologists no longer had objections.

Cllr Campbell said: “The main issue which the members considered was the question of harm to landscape and conservation area. The planning officer agreed that this was a subjective assessment.

“The members unanimously accepted my argument that insufficient weight had been given to the public benefits and that the landscape harm was minor to moderate.”