Plans approved for major new tourist hub at Haithwaite Farm, Penton

Applicants Netherby Hall have had a planning application approved to convert Haithwaite Farm at Penton into a 'tourist, cultural and heritage hub' comprising a cafe, farm shop, exhibition space, taphouse, wellness spa, heritage centre, craft workshops, distillery, office space, staff accommodation, and holiday accommodation.

At a meeting held yesterday, May 10 councillors voted overwhelmingly to allow the application to go ahead with conditions.

An overview of the proposed development at Haithwaite Farm at Penton near Longtown (002) (Image: Supplied)

Applicants say the new development aims to create new jobs and opportunities for the area by diversifying the existing farmstead into a ‘ecotourism, cultural and heritage hub’.

Projections suggest the development could create 87-91 direct full time jobs once in operation, with a further 50 full time ‘spin-off’ jobs in the supply chain and wider economy.

Despite the application being approved, a number of objectors attended the meeting to express their views.

Tim Pickstone, Cumberland Councillor for Longtown, objected to the application.

He said: "The overwhelming opinion in Nicholforest is that they're opposed to the development."

An artist's impression of the farm shop, cafe and exhibition centre at the proposed development at Haithwaite Farm at Penton, near Longtown. (Image: Supplied)

Mr Pickstone believes that after some looking into the history of developments in Penton he found 'this is the biggest development ever seen in Nicholforest'.

Talking about the 90-plus jobs on offer from the development, Mr Pickstone said: "I don't believe there is even 91 people in Penton of working age."

Gerald Smith, who is a director of Netherby Hall Ltd which is behind the plans, said: “Our ambition is to create a destination for the community and visitors which would provide more reasons for people to visit this part of the world, and in turn support other local businesses and the wider economy.

“By regenerating existing derelict and redundant buildings at Haithwaite Farm, we aim to diversify the traditional farmstead into a sustainable, green tourism venture which will look to the future by creating new jobs and opportunities for local people while remaining sensitive to the local area.

“I would like to thank the members of the local community who have shown their support for the development.

“We’re delighted that the plans have been approved by the council and we are looking forward to making the proposals a reality.”