A FAMILY-run farming business looking to diversify hopes to transform a barn into an event venue as it submits an application for change-of-use to planners.

Shillingford Organics’ application - reference 25/01408/FUL - is seeking permission from Teignbridge District Council to convert an agricultural barn at its base of operations at Barton Lane, Exeter, into a purpose-built event venue.

The aim being to ‘support community engagement, education, and sustainable business growth’, the planning statement for 25/01408/FUL says.

The existing barn has been used for around 40 years for storing agricultural machinery and harvested crops.

‘The space will be used to host farm events, workshops, classes, and dining experiences, promoting cooking and healthy eating with local produce, as well as environmental stewardship and public interaction with sustainable farming practices’, the planning statement adds.

Teignbridge District Council are due to make a decision by November 10.

Shillingford Organics grows organic vegetables and deliver vegetable boxes to Exeter and the surrounding areas.

The company attends several Farmers' Markets, including Exeter, Exeter Quayside, Topsham, Teignmouth and Crediton.