PLANS have been submitted to build a sheep shed and replace an existing pole barn at a site in Thursby, near Carlisle.

Fiona Wharton has applied to Cumberland Council for planning permission for the new building at Somerfield House in Bank End.

The site covers an area of 212.29 square metres and is described as part agricultural yard/field area and part old pole barn which is "no longer fit for purpose and therefore needs replaced" according to the application form.

According to a planning document the sheep shed is to be located adjoining the current buildings at Somerfield House.

It states: "Part of the new shed is to be on an existing footprint of a pole barn on the property that is in need of replacement. The building lies in an L shape as to make the most efficient use of the available space on site.”

The proposed building is to be 13.1m wide at its widest point and 21.33m long. It will measure approximately 3.04m to the eaves and will measure approximately 4.6m to the ridge point.

The document adds: "The building will be in-keeping with other buildings on the steading, therefore no additional landscaping should be needed.

"The building will be of steel frame construction. The roof will be grey fibre cement sheeting with Perspex skylights, the walls are to be concrete panel to 2m with juniper green box profile above.

"The north elevation will be both open fronted with a feed passage, and part with panel walls and cladding. The writer notes that all materials match the materials have been chosen not to create any visual impact on the area."

According to the statement the sheep shed is to be accessed via the current access therefore no new access is to be required.

It adds: "The site is currently part a pole barn which is to be removed as the new shed is to be erected on the existing footprint.

"This pole barn is no longer fit for purpose due to age and therefore needs replaced. The writer notes the new shed is to be the same height as the existing pole barn which is to be replaced.

"The remainder of the site is currently an agricultural yard/field area. The new building is required to improve the welfare of the sheep flock and provide lambing facilities. It is not considered the construction of a new sheep shed would be of any detriment to the rest of the holding."

The report concludes that the owner has chosen materials and a site for the sheep shed to create the least intrusion on the surrounding area.

It adds: "Part of the shed is to be on the footprint of an existing shed which is no longer fit for purpose. The sheep shed is required for the continuation of the successful sheep flock with improvements in animal welfare and the provision of lambing facilities."

The application is currently being considered by planning officers at the council.