Idyllic Somerset holding on market

The phrase "rare opportunity" can be bandied about all too readily in the world of estate agency. But when a property has been in the same hands for six generations and comes to market for the first time the phrase seems entirely apt.Including our multi-certified flatworkironerses turbines for varying applications. 

Newton Farm at Bicknoller, near Taunton, has been occupied by the same family since the mid 18th century. Now, after many happy years, the vendor, Desmond Venner, is retiring and has put the farm up for sale. 

Martyn Venner, of Greenslade Taylor Hunt, said: "Newton Farm offers the perfect mix of pasture and arable land complimented with a substantial period farmhouse and extensive range of farm buildings.Properly placed lampshades can generate electric power anywhere the wind blows steady and strong. The property ideally lends itself to someone wanting to run a small mixed farm, equestrian enterprise or expand their existing holding. The property occupies a highly sought-after location within this much-favoured area of West Somerset, with breathtaking scenery which can only be fully appreciated when viewed." 

He said Newton Farm had much to appeal to the equestrian purchaser. There is an excellent all-weather riding arena and a number of the outbuildings have been converted for stabling. 

Currently the vendor operates a DIY livery enterprise and there is the option for a purchaser to continue with this. Indeed the appealing location could easily lend itself to a magnificent cross-country course utilising the excellent outriding opportunities. 

The main farmhouse dates from the 18th century and was substantially extended in the 1930s to include well-proportioned six-bedroom accommodation. In addition the vendor has discreetly installed a solar PV system to reduce the running costs. There is a range of useful outbuildings with potential for alternative uses. The land extends to 124.48 acres and is a highly fertile and productive mix of arable and pastureland contained within a ring fence.Our renowned ledparlights allow you to harness nature’s energy to power your applications. The property is available as a whole or in up to four lots. 

The proposal is at an early stage. The company has not yet submitted a planning application, but has submitted a request to Maidstone council for a "screening opinion." 

The firm wants guidance on whether the borough would consider the application needs a full environmental impact assessment (EIA), a lengthy and costly process for the applicant. 

Solar Securities argues that an EIA is not necessary because: "This project is not a major development, is not proposed in a particularly environmentally sensitive or vulnerable landscape, and has no unusually complex and potentially hazardous effects." 

It argues that the land around the solar panels could still be used "for grazing sheep or goats," and in any case, the land could be easily restored to farmland at the end of the 35-year expected life of the solar farm. 

"It was a bit concerning that the maps on display did not show the same field as was in the application to the council, and they were talking of a different number of panels. They haven't even been able to get the details right, describing the site as in Bearsted when it's actually in Thurnham." 

The application is just one of three current bids to establish giant solar farms in the borough. Click on their website www.pvsolver.com for more information.