Green light for South Downs farm redevelopment and new pathway plans
April 24, 2025
The future of a 17th century listed barn has been secured and a new public right of way will be created as part of a farm redevelopment in the National Park.
The Planning Committee voted to grant approval to plans for a new farmyard at Grace’s Farm, Martyr Worthy, to help secure the future of the three-generation family farm.
The 1,200-acre farm is mainly arable, comprising wheat, winter barley, spring barley, oilseed rape and maize. There is also over 120 acres of temporary and permanent pasture used to support around 117 beef cattle.
Some of the barns and stables are so no longer suitable for modern agriculture, so the scheme will see two listed farm buildings converted to residential use, including one rural worker dwelling and three market residential units.
The National Park Authority has worked with Hampshire County Council’s Countryside Access team to negotiate the extension of the Watercress Way westwards towards Winchester along the course of the old Winchester to Alton railway.
There will also be a new footpath to run south from the farm to Easton.
The scheme includes significant biodiversity net gain. More than 200 trees will be planted, as well as the planting of 4,836 native hedge plants.
Swift bricks, swallow cups, sparrow terraces, starling bird boxes, and insect hotels are all incorporated into the redevelopment.
Sarah Round, Principal Development Management Officer, said: “This high-quality scheme conserves the long-term sustainable future of two heritage assets and delivers significant ecological benefits to aid nature recovery in the National Park.
“The plans also help to deliver a key public right of way link as set out in the South Downs Local Plan.
“Farming and farmers really are the lifeblood of the National Park and this development will deliver economic and social benefits to our rural economy.”
