Peak District farm park unveils expansion plans

Matlock Farm Park has unveiled plans for sheep racing, new picnic facilities and a further play area, as well as a new barn and improved access.

In an application to North East Derbyshire Council seeking permission for the developments, it says: “The proposed works are a necessary investment to the park improving its sustainability to become an all-year-around tourist attraction.”

Plans include sheep racing, picnic facilities, a children’s play area and relocation of the ferret racing area.

A statement accompanying the application says: “The design principle is to draw visitors further into the park, avoiding overcrowding near the entrance

“The entertainment of the sheep racing and ferret racing facilities will draw the tourism into the lower fields.

“An additional outside children’s playground again ensures social distancing is easily achievable within the playground areas.”