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Farm shop plans approved for cow shed at Upton Court Farm in Shepherdswell near Dover

The opening of Jeremy Clarkson's farm shop famously came with its fair share of problems.

From parking and traffic issues, to the enforcement of its temporary closure, Diddly Squat Farm Shop was labelled a 'nightmare' by locals but an application to convert a cow shed near Dover has been approved without any backlash.

The cow shed that is being turned into Frys' Farm Shop at Upton Court Farm near Dover. Picture: Michael and Claire Fry
The cow shed that is being turned into Frys' Farm Shop at Upton Court Farm near Dover. Picture: Michael and Claire Fry

Plans are in place to convert the cow shed at Upton Court Farm into Frys' Farm Shop, selling local produce and essential items, as well as takeaway hot and cold drinks.

This would be completed with no change to the layout of the cow shed off Coldred Road, Shepherdswell, under the application by Michael and Claire Fry.

In its proposal to Dover District Council, the application says: "The works that are required are minimal, and in the main limited to repairing the existing building and improving its appearance in fitting with its location close to the farmhouse.

"The plans would enable the growth of a rural business, through conversion of existing buildings which are currently used only for storage."

The planned car park is via a private driveway which is shared with Upton Court Cottage and will be levelled out where required.

Location of the farm house and cow shed. Picture: Michael and Claire Fry
Location of the farm house and cow shed. Picture: Michael and Claire Fry

Given the scale of the proposed business, it is not expected that there will be a significant increase on traffic into the village. Deliveries will be made to the shop, without impacting traffic flow on the public highway.

The farm house and cottage at Upton Court Farm have been Grade-II listed since 1980.

The farm yard is divided into two sections which are owned separately.

The previous owners of Upton Court Farm had previously used the cow shed as a farm shop up until the late 1980s. Prior to this use, the building was used for cattle rearing and as a milking parlour.

The company announced its plans had been accepted in a statement.

The former cow shed will be used to sell local produce and essential items. Picture: Michael and Claire Fry
The former cow shed will be used to sell local produce and essential items. Picture: Michael and Claire Fry

A spokesman said: "I am very happy to announce that the planning applications for a farm shop at Upton Court Farm have been approved, so thanks for the support in getting to this point.

"Now the hard work really begins."

Commenting on the post, villagers said it was exciting and another referred to the shop being a "much-needed village amenity".

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