Couple Appeals Planning Decision to Save Rare Goats’ Shelter

A couple in Herefordshire is fighting to overturn a planning decision that could leave their rare goats homeless. Anna and Simon Lunt submitted a retrospective planning application for a goat shed and tractor shed at Museum Orchard, located near Lugwardine, east of Hereford. The application faced strong opposition from local residents and was rejected by county planners earlier this month.

The Lunts plan to appeal the decision to the government’s Planning Inspectorate, fearing they may soon receive an enforcement notice requiring the demolition of the sheds. Anna Lunt emphasized the urgent need for the structures, stating that without them, they risk losing their breeding herd of nine rare ‘English’ nannies and one billy goat. “We have to take their welfare into account,” she said, highlighting the goats’ specific need for shelter from wet weather.

The couple asserts that both buildings are constructed without foundations and primarily from reclaimed materials that would have otherwise ended up in landfill. Anna Lunt mentioned that the goat shed is designed to be dismantled in the future, with plans to replace its footprint with a vegetable patch, promoting sustainability in their farming practices.

In response to concerns about the aesthetic impact of the sheds, she expressed willingness to make adjustments. “If they didn’t like the sheds’ appearance, we would be happy to paint or clad them,” she added. The Lunts feel they were not given an opportunity to present their side of the story during the planning process. Simon Lunt noted that some objections came from individuals they previously considered friends.

Despite fears that the structures could harm the historic orchard trees, the couple maintains that they have not removed any trees to accommodate the sheds. Simon Lunt explained that with proper protection, the goats actually enhance the soil quality, benefiting the trees rather than harming them. “We would hardly choose to damage our trees,” he stated.

In addition to the sheds, a public consultation recently closed regarding a licensing application for the Blue Barn, located near the tractor shed. The couple plans to produce and sell Blue Barn Cider, made entirely from the orchard’s produce, including wild yeast. Simon Lunt expressed his desire to sell the cider directly to the public, avoiding intermediaries, but he acknowledged that this venture could also face opposition from neighbors.

The outcome of the appeal to the Planning Inspectorate could significantly impact not only the Lunts’ farming operations but also the future of their rare goats. As they navigate these challenges, the couple remains committed to protecting their animals and their heritage at Museum Orchard.