Pick-your-own flower farm seeks longer seasonal opening

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 11:03 · Archive

A pick-your-own flower farm near Ripon has applied to open from May to November after exceeding permitted opening days in its first season.

The Flower Belt near Ripon has filed a planning application to operate for more than six months each year after exceeding its permitted opening days during its first season. The attraction, which opened in July off the A61 between Ripon and Harrogate, offers visitors the chance to pick wildflowers and sunflowers and take part in activities including yoga and live music.

Planning documents acknowledge that the venue proved so popular during its first summer that it operated beyond the 28 days originally permitted under temporary planning rules. Owner John Houseman says he was initially unaware that planning regulations were being breached. He has now applied for permission to operate the attraction annually from May 1 until November 10, with opening hours extending to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays and 10pm on Sundays.

Supporters have praised the attraction for bringing visitors to the area, supporting local businesses and providing a peaceful place for families to enjoy nature. One supporter praised the owners for diversifying their farming business.

How it is being reported

• Pick-your-own flower farm seeks longer opening after breaching rules in first seasonThe Flower Belt near Ripon seeks permission to open from May 1 to November 10 after breaching planning rules, with public backing for flowers, events and jobs.York Press · 23 Oct, 10:43
• Pick-your-own flower farm seeks longer opening after breaching rules in first seasonThe Flower Belt near Ripon seeks permission to open from May 1 to November 10 after breaching planning rules, with public backing for flowers, events and jobs.Gazette & Herald (Malton) · 23 Oct, 10:43

In this story: The Flower Belt · John Houseman · Ripon · Harrogate

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