PLANS have been put forward to convert a barn at a popular farm's premises into a wedding venue.

Proposals have been drawn up seeking to turn 'The Hayloft' on Sandy Lane Farm on Sandy Lane, Bold Heath into a wedding and ceremony venue.

The planning application was submitted to St Helens Council earlier this month.

The plans state that the hayloft was opened in August 2017 as a "diversification venture" to support the farm business and was launched as a cafe.

It provides a venue which is open to the public and already used for private functions, including weddings.

Plans add: "Since its opening it has proved to be extremely popular as a local family attraction which is unsurprising given its location and the quality of the development."

The proposals add that the premises' existing function room is used 'on frequent occasions for wedding services and receptions as well as a range of other special occasions'.

Warrington Guardian:

The venue

The business employs 23 staff and there is "scope to provide more employment opportunities with the ongoing development of the site".

Plans add the proposals are "compatible with the rural landscape character and is not detrimental to the green belt".

They said: "The proposals will ensure the continued success of the business which is a thriving local attraction that makes a significant contribution to the local community and its rural economy."

The proposals are on public consultation until Friday, November 8.