Couple bid to build Oswestry farm visitor centre

The centre at Pentre Clawdd Farm, which already has a thriving Christmas tree business and a caravan and camping pod site, could also be used for lectures and talks on visitor attractions as it offers panoramic views of Old Oswestry Hillfort.

Emma and Julian Morris, who own the site on the Oswestry to Gobowen road, close to the A5 roundabout, have applied for planning approval to build the tourism and visitor centre along with car parking and associated highways improvements.

A statement lodged with Shropshire Council in support of the bid says the couple want to expand the business with four full-time posts and eight part-time jobs being created.

It says: "They believe at Pentre Clawdd they can not only create a fantastic destination for visitors, but can provide added value to the community through this development with the creation of employment.

"The camping pod business has given an added dimension to the farm and they are attracting visitors from all over the country that want to experience a glamping holiday in a beautiful part of Shropshire.

"The visitor centre will complement the caravan business and camping pods as it will provide a meeting point for those who wish to walk or cycle local trails such as Offa's Dyke, Wat's Dyke and the Old Oswestry Hill Fort.

"Ventures and development such as the proposed, ensure that tourism is directed not only into the heart of Oswestry but to the surrounding county also.

"The applicant believes that this building can be a primary display for the world famous hill fort with its panoramic views.

"The building will also be utilised for lectures and talks on visitor attractions."