PLANS have been lodged for a 'diversification project' to support the financial viability of a farm near Cockermouth.

An application has been submitted to Lake District National Park Authority planners to build change the use of agricultural land at Bouch House Farm to site a shepherd's hut for tourism purposes.

The application states that the hut will be sited close to the farmhouse and screened from the adjacent highway by an 'existing mature hedge', and livestock will be stopped from entering the shepherd's hut site.

The hut would measure 11 metres by three metres, would cater for a maximum of two guests, and would involve the creation of one car parking space.

A personal statement submitted by the applicant, Mr Taylor, said: "The proposal is to have a farm diversification project for the family to help with.

"It will support the farming business to generate more income, and we are told that generally this type of diversification proposal on farms is to encouraged.

"General costs for farmers are increasing on a month by month basis, hence the need for new income streams."

Mr Chester's letter says he has been supporting his family who live on the farm, and the proposal would provide extra stability and flexibility for them.

It concludes: "The proposal is to create extra income streams for the farm business, and to create a new tourist destination in this part of the countryside."