Farm Wins Expansion Grant

Posted by Natasha Lovell-Smith on 19/07/2010

A Northumberland farm, best known for producing free-range eggs, is to open a farm shop and restaurant with the help of a £200,000 grant

The money, donated by The Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), was awarded to encourage further diversification of the farm. The company already has a successful free-range egg business, Sunny Hill Eggs, which currently supplies a significant number of local and regional retailers.

“We've been working hard at the building since February and are hoping to open at the beginning of August,” said Andrew Young, managing director. The new development will include a delicatessen, butcher's counter and gift shop selling local and seasonal produce. There will also be a coffee shop, restaurant and large children's play area as part of the expansion.

As well as customers in the local area, the farm shop hopes to attract people travelling on the nearby A1 motorway. “The stretch of road between Newcastle and Edinburgh, where we are located, was recently voted one of the worst places to buy takeaway food in the UK. Hopefully our selection of fresh local produce will change this reputation and encourage more people to take a break from driving and visit the farm,” added Mr Young.