A FORMER stable block is set to be transformed into a new farm shop

The building will accommodate a small café, farm shop and further retail unit on the Somerley Estate.

It comes after plans were given the green light by New Forest District Council. 

Currently disused, plans for the site near St Mary and All Saints Church, include 27 new parking spaces, along with planned new entrances, windows and bike parking. 

A statement from the estate read during a planning committee meeting on December 13, said: "It is sought to find an alternative and viable use to reoccupy the buildings now there is no purpose for their original use.

"Without such uses buildings such as these are at risk of accelerated decay and cost maintenance." 

Several councillors had concerns about highway restrictions with a nearby nursery and church already creating traffic during certain hours. 

However, Somerley Estate confirmed that the business's working hours would be restricted to avoid causing traffic issues on the A338. 

Cllr Barry Rickman was in strong support of the proposed plans, seconded by Cllr Malcolm Wade, both believing the plan breathes new life into the area. 

Cllr Rickman said: "I’ve visited this site many times in 50 years going to Ellingham Parish church which was a much sought over location for weddings with several hundred people, so the highway wasn't an issue back then and I don’t believe it is one now.

“I believe this brings new life into some buildings, recreates happenings, jobs, local sustainable products, what's not to love in it?”

Concerns were raised over protecting the surrounding ecology, but the estate confirmed it would not cut down trees protected by tree protection orders and would also install bat boxes within the stable. 

Plans have also been made to protect and restore the stables. A Grade II building, the estate has promised to maintain the historic nature of the building, restoring elements such as the original clock on the southern gable face.

Cllr Wade said: "We need to look at re-purposing some agricultural buildings to bring new life into communities and this is a good example with no real negative impact on anybody.”