Dutch Braai Restaurant And Weddings Venue: New Plans Revealed For Disused Barns

Wednesday, 12 March 2025 09:02

By Rufus Pickles LDR

Two farm barns near an Isle of Wight town could be used as a Dutch Braai restaurant and wedding and events space.

Mr R. Oglander applied to County Hall for planning and listed building consent to convert two disused buildings at New Farm to the northwest of Brading.

His plans also include a proposal for an associated car park.

Last July, New Farm started to host Braai – a culinary and entertainment experience inspired by South African outdoor barbecue culture.

The pop-up restaurant is a collective of Nunwell Home Farm, Wight Knuckle Brewery, Wight Whisky and Heron, led by chef Alex Kimber.

A Planning, Design and Access Statement prepared by Mr Oglander’s agent, BCM Wilson Hill, said:

“The buildings are no longer required for modern farming purposes — they are neither suitable for modern farming and equipment nor for the change towards regenerative farming that has recently taken place at the farm.

“The proposal will provide an important farm diversification, retaining a commercial use adding to the local and Island economy both in employment and use of local produce.

“Other than the farmhouse, which is part of the overall farm, there are no other residential properties nearby and therefore the proposed use will not result in any adverse impacts on any neighbouring properties.

“Within the New Farm ownership boundary are three Grade II Listed buildings, a farmhouse, granary and threshing barn.

“The proposed development will preserve the historic fabric of the buildings, optimising their use to be the most viable long-term solution and delivering public benefit.”

The council’s public consultation on the proposals ends on April 11 and a decision is expected on May 2.