Thornton Hall Country Park, situated within the scenic landscapes of Thornton Hall Farm, accessible from Church Road in Thornton-in-Craven, North Yorkshire, serves not only as an open farm but also as a renowned visitor attraction that draws families and individuals looking to engage with nature and partake in a plethora of activities. In a recent development, the park has formally requested retrospective planning permission for multiple installations that have been introduced to the site incrementally over the years, albeit without the necessary approvals.
This request for backdated planning permission encompasses several notable additions that have become central to the park’s operations and appeal. Among these are six timber buildings, a spacious teepee, engaging bouncy pillows designed for children’s amusement, a dedicated pedal tractor track, and a hardstanding area that caters to various activities. Each of these features contributes significantly to the overall visitor experience and adds layers to the activities that families can enjoy while visiting.
The operators of Thornton Hall, Chris and Emma Harrison, have been instrumental in the park’s growth and evolution. The couple has dedicated immense effort and passion to transforming the family farm into a vibrant tourist destination that also includes a wedding venue in addition to the open farm attractions. Their commitment not only enhances the charm and usability of the site but also serves as an economic boon for the area, generating employment opportunities. Currently, they employ approximately 70 full and part-time staff members, along with a seasonal influx of around 60 freelancers during peak times, indicating the significance of the venue to local job creation and economic sustainability.
In conjunction with the daily farm activities, Thornton Hall Country Park organizes seasonal events that have earned a reputation for being both delightful and immensely popular within the community. These events draw large crowds and foster a sense of togetherness among visitors, further solidifying the park’s role as a hub for local activity and enjoyment throughout the year.
Within the context of their retrospective planning application, a planning statement has been provided detailing the extensive development that has occurred over the years. The statement highlights that with the exception of the hardstanding area, all the noted developments have been situated within land that has already received permission for use as part of a visitor open farm. This aspect of the application underscores the intention to remain compliant with planning regulations while acknowledging the integral nature of these installations to the park’s operational framework.
Notably, five of the timber buildings and the teepee have contributed to the seasonal experiences offered, such as those during Christmas, Easter, summer, and Halloween. These attractions are essential not only for enhancing the visitor experience but also for ensuring that Thornton Hall continues to thrive as a destination that families look forward to visiting throughout the year. The bouncy pillows, which have been part of the park’s entertainment offerings for over five years, provide a fun and engaging space for children, while the recently introduced pedal tractor track—established in August 2021—has added a valuable dimension to the recreational options available for young visitors.
The planning statement further details that the timber building located to the north of the site has served a practical purpose for approximately nine years, acting as a vital changing area and rest room for staff members. This aspect is indicative of the park’s commitment to maintaining a professional and supportive environment for its employees, ensuring they have the necessary facilities to perform their roles effectively. Meanwhile, the concrete area created in March 2021, designated for pedal tractors, has become an essential space for engaging children in hands-on experiences that foster creativity and enjoyment.
Elaborating on the potential impacts of these additions, the planning application affirms that the enhancements made to the park enrich the existing tourism offering and extend the visitor season into the winter months. This is especially important in a region where tourism can fluctuate according to the seasons and ensures the viability of local businesses that rely on steady patronage. The application argues that none of these modifications have had a significant detrimental impact on the natural or historical environment, nor have they adversely affected the character of the area. This aspect of the application seeks to reassure local authorities and residents that the ongoing development aligns harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
Moreover, by diversifying the farm’s operations into a full-fledged visitor attraction, the proposal argues that there are notable social and economic benefits for the community. The contributions made by Chris and Emma Harrison embody the ideal of rural diversification, effectively balancing the traditional agricultural practices with contemporary tourism demands. This approach not only safeguards the agricultural significance of the site but also nourishes the local economy.
In conclusion, the planning statement from Chris and Emma Harrison underscores their transformative vision for Thornton Hall Country Park, positioning it as a thriving rural visitor attraction. They have worked diligently to create a professionally run business offering a high-quality venue for various events, while also providing significant employment opportunities to the local workforce. The groundwork laid by the Harrisons reflects a dedication to both their business and the community they serve, demonstrating how farm-based tourism can evolve while remaining rooted in its agricultural origins.
Chris and Emma Harrison’s efforts have pivoted Thornton Hall into a notable success story within the realm of rural tourism, creating a unique synthesis of agricultural and recreational experiences. They boast of all developments being conducive to the functioning of the farm as an open farm visitor attraction without causing any significant adverse landscape impact that might render the developments unacceptable in a planning context. This consideration highlights a responsible approach to development that prioritizes environmental stewardship alongside economic gain.
With this application for retrospective planning permission, the couple aims not just to gain regulatory compliance but also to solidify the future of Thornton Hall Country Park as a beloved destination within the community. By inviting public feedback on their plans, the Harrisons hope to engage with the local residents, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and community solidarity as they look toward continuing to anchor Thornton Hall Country Park firmly in North Yorkshire’s cultural and recreational tapestry.
As the local planning authority, Pendle Council has set a deadline for community feedback, inviting residents and interested parties to express their opinions by January 7, 2025. This period for public comment provides an opportunity for stakeholders to weigh in on the future of Thornton Hall Country Park, affirming its role as a vital and dynamic space in the fabric of Thornton-in-Craven. It is an occasion for the community to reflect upon the advantages and experiences that this unique venue offers, and to consider the broader implications of the park’s development on the region’s economic and social landscape. The decision that will follow will ultimately shape the trajectory of this cherished local destination, allowing it to continue to flourish in the years to come.