A GOAT shed at an Aglionby farm could be changed into a classroom if the plans are approved.

The proposal is for a 70 square metre site at Holmegate Farm and it would provide a shelter for children engaged in educational activities at the farm.

A planning report states: "The farm regularly has a number of school visits attending the site as part of the education curriculum and wishes to provide additional space to accommodate these visitors on site."

The building is currently used for the storage of farm equipment and a planning report states: "Holmegate Farm is a mixed livestock and arable farm set on the outskirts of Carlisle.

"The farm has an extensive wetland area and has been working closely with the Eden Riverside Trust to develop to provide an excellent educational experience for children of all ages.

"The proposed development adopts the former goat shed located on site, utilising the existing structural fabric of the structure to create a new space for shelter on the farm whilst children are engaged in the activities of the site."

News and Star: Site of the buildingSite of the building (Image: Cumberland Council planning portal)

The application is seeking full planning permission for the development which also includes welfare facilities for visitors to the site.

The report states: "Access is directly from the adjacent U1177 which services the site from the A69. There is sufficient parking around the site for the present visitors.

"The existing building is to be reused, with new window and door openings created alongside internal modifications and a new insulated roof structure."

The proposed project would include:

  • Retention of walls to the structure;
  • New floor to ground floor of barn;
  • New structural openings to the existing barn and dwelling;
  • Removal of roof structure and reconstruction;
  • New drainage system to service the site.