A WINERY – including visitor centre and tasting space – could soon be developed near Yeovil.
Plans have been submitted to Dorset Council for the creation of a winery at Border Farm, in Closworth Road, Halstock.
The scheme outlines plans for the demolition of a number of derelict farm buildings on the site, and their replacement with a tasting barn visitor centre, as well as a storage and distribution building for the existing vineyard.
The Halstock Ridge Vineyard Farm Partnership said the scheme would work in two phases.
“To support our move into wine, we need to replace the dilapidated agricultural buildings, some containing asbestos, in two phases,” the application said.
Derelict farm buildings would demolished as part of the plans. Picture: Greenspace/Dorset Council
“The first phase is the ‘Tasting Barn’ to sell our wine on-site, often called the ‘Cellar Door Sales’.
“The second phase will involve constructing a winery for production in the current Dutch Barn area.”
Initially, the firm would pay for grapes produced on the site to be sent away for processing and bottling, with the second phase enabling this to take place on site, the plan went on.
“A greenhouse and kitchen garden will complement the building,” the application added. “The small kitchen and scullery are to support the wine tasting with produce from our kitchen garden to enhance the wine tasting and increase profitability.
“We would also display and sell our other produce (fruit, vegetables, honey) alongside farmhouse products such as jams and chutneys as an additional income stream.”
Glazing would allow visitors to take in a view of the vineyards and beyond, the plan said, while reducing the need for artificial heating as much as possible. Decking would also allow tasting to take place outdoors.
Glazing would give visitors a good view of the site – and beyond. Picture: Greenspace/Dorset Council
And it is hoped the design of the development would mean it is less intrusive than the current structures.
“Accessibility has been key to this design, and is one reason for the low level of the building,” the application said. “It has also been sited to improve the appearance of the farm from the road.
“Though we aim for a quality build, the design aesthetic is very much rural and agricultural in keeping with the farm and local area.”
For more details on the plan, log on to dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search application reference P/FUL/2024/06219.
I fully support this idea and it would be really good for the tourist industry as there is nothing in this area.
I would just like to know exactly where this farm is so I can take a sneaky view.