A farm diversification venture in the North York Moors National Park, where visitors are invited to pick their own flowers, has garnered significant community support for its proposed expansion. The Flower Belt, established two years ago on a 3.5-hectare plot between Helmsley and Sproxton, is seeking permission to extend its operating season from April to October, allowing the sale of produce such as sunflowers, wildflowers, and pumpkins, along with other local goods.
As the only business of its kind in Northern England, The Flower Belt currently operates under a temporary 28-day annual use, utilizing permitted development rights for its structures. Due to its success, the enterprise now aims to expand its offerings to include tulips.
Planning documents submitted to the North York Moors National Park Authority highlight that the agricultural landscape surrounding The Flower Belt provides an appropriate setting that does not negatively impact the amenity of the area. The proposal emphasizes that the venture will “continue to operate quietly alongside the existing farm unit as a unique farm diversification project,” featuring around 32 varieties of wildflowers available for picking.
The documents further state that the site offers a “friendly and family activity” and encourages “a mindful experience in the outdoors.” They acknowledge that while any new development should respect the character of the North York Moors National Park, the public benefits from the site, including increased tourism and enhanced local ecology, outweigh any minor landscape impacts from April to October.
The expansion proposal has attracted numerous letters of support from local residents ahead of its consideration by the planning authority. Supporters have praised the initiative, calling it “wonderful,” “fantastic,” and “brilliant.” They note that the meadows not only beautify the area but also bolster local ecology and tourism, which is vital for the nearby market town of Helmsley.
One resident commented, “The enterprise is a perfect example of diversification by farmers that works for local residents as well as visitors, all of whom seem to be full of praise for the innovative use of land. It attracts visitors from near and far, and Helmsley itself must benefit from that too.”
Another supporter added, “At a time when the government is actively encouraging farmers to diversify, The Flower Belt stands as a shining example of how this can be done in a way that benefits both the environment and the community. The project embodies the principles of sustainability, localism, and innovation, which are crucial to the future of rural areas.”
The planning authority is set to review the expansion proposal soon, considering the overwhelming community support and the project’s alignment with regional development goals.
