Matson Ground Estate plans for a new rural enterprise hub

We’re delighted to see plans to breathe new life into redundant farm buildings at Home Farm near Windermere, recently submitted to the Lake District National Park Authority for consideration, and being shared with the local community by the estate.

If approved, the farm, which is part of the 500-hectare family-owned Matson Ground Estate, will be transformed into a new rural enterprise hub. The project is designed to support the farming enterprise, help fund environmental projects, and provide a boost to the local community. It is an exemplar rural place-making scheme, and one which will build long term sustainability for the estate.

The proposed scheme combines new agricultural buildings with a mix of flexible workspaces suitable for small businesses, artisans, producers, wellness providers, and rural office users. Two indoor padel courts are also included in the application.

Starting with identifying suitable opportunities for the site and developing a commercially viable concept, the Rural Solutions consulting, planning, and design teams designed the scheme and are retained as the agent for the planning application.

A rural business adapting for the future

The overall ambition is for a farm diversification project that supports the future of farming in the Lake District National Park, creates local jobs, and continues the estate’s long-term stewardship of the land. The development forms part of Matson Ground Estate Company’s wider sustainability and stewardship efforts, which include wetland creation, wood pasture schemes, and biodiversity enhancement.

Madeleine Scott, director of Matson Ground Estate Company, said: "Our aim is to give new life to redundant farm buildings, supporting farming, local jobs, wellness, and our continued stewardship of the land. As with everything we do here at Matson Ground, this is a carefully thought through decision."

Alex Scott, director of Matson Ground Estate Company, said: "Farming remains at the heart of what we do, but like many rural businesses we have to adapt to ensure the Estate remains sustainable for future generations. By bringing these surplus buildings back into productive use, we can continue investing in agriculture, caring for the landscape, creating skilled local employment and supporting the communities that make this part of Cumbria so special."

The planning application was submitted to the Lake District National Park Authority in July and is currently awaiting a decision. Read more about the plans here.

Get in touch

Rural Solutions is a leading national advisor on rural diversification projects with a record of accomplishment going back over 20 years. Our experienced team shares a passion for creating vibrant and sustainable rural places.

Wherever you are on your diversification journey, we would be pleased to help you through the decision-making and development process. For an informal chat call us on 01756 797501 or email info@ruralsolutions.co.uk.