The network of old farm buildings at Root Farm have come to the end of their economic life. The large old asbestos clad shed has been removed, as have a selection of the older buildings, in readiness for reconstruction.
The responses and results from the Community Consultations helped shape the proposals for these buildings. The site is in close proximity to the ‘village centre’ and lend themselves to creating small-scale flexible work units and workshop space that could be occupied by a variety of users. The spaces have the ability to be interlinked to give flexibility to small businesses to expand or contract as appropriate. The older buildings are retained and four smaller shed units will replace the large asbestos-clad, steel-framed barn. All buildings will be supported by communal services, a kitchen, WCs, showers and a meeting room.
Not all of the buildings on the site will be brought back in to use immediately, but they will all be repaired, made wind-and water-tight for the time being until the site is established and successful. Future conversion of these buildings would only be considered if there was sufficient local community demand for more space.
A full planning application was approved by Ribble Valley Borough Council in December 2021. Contractors L&W Wilson Ltd completed Phase 1 work (a demolition and a site clean up exercise) earlier this year. Design development for the reconstruction phase was longer than anticipated and is now complete with minor amendments approved by the Council in December 2023. Contractors will commence works on site on 27th August 2024 on an anticipated twelve to fifteen-month programme.
The proposed buildings sit within the footprint of the original buildings and surrounding hardstanding and structures that form part of the original steading. Parking arrangements have extended the existing provision, and these remain to the rear of Root Farm, protected and screened by buildings and the lay of the land. Additional hard landscaping, services, and waste provision are included on the remaining footprint of the site. A total of 24 parking spaces are available to serve the four proposed workshops and the nine proposed flexible work units.
Click here to view updated plans for Root Farm Buildings.
In summary the draft proposals include:
- Bringing vacant heritage buildings back into use
- Replacing the old steel-framed asbestos-clad shed with four new workshops
- Creating eight new work units of differing sizes within the heritage buildings
- Provision of flexible workshop/business space for residents and local businesses
- Provision of space for employment opportunities in the rural area
- Sufficient parking to cater for the proposed development
- Electricity North West requirement for a new electrical substation.
16th August 2024
