Successful South Downs vineyard plans winery extension

Abingworth Winery at Champions Farm in Thakeham, is currently seeking planning permission from Horsham District Council for the extension. It says that an enlarged storage area is needed because existing space is tight.

Agents for the 23-acre vineyard, in a statement to the council, say: “The vineyard is an important part of the local rural economy and Thakeham’s economy. Both local and national policy offer strong endorsement of the need to support the growth of local businesses and farm diversification.”

They add: “The business is a family-run venture aiming to bring value to the local community and to the economy. It is an important part of the farm’s diversification strategy and a local employer.”

The vineyard was planted in 2022, diversifying the farm away from mixed arable and pasture. “Establishment of this viticultural business is overseen by world renowned viticulture climatologist, Dr Alistair Nesbitt of Vinescapes,” say the agents.

"The Vineyard has met with considerable success and the proposal is part of a strategy to ensure the ongoing success of the Vineyard enterprise.”

Have you read? Plans outlined for new M&S store in Sussex village

Horsham pub to shut amid shake-up by major hotel chain

Wine has been grown in the UK for thousands of years but reached a low-point during the two world wars when most agricultural land was used for food crops. Viticulture has since accelerated in the UK, mainly in the south.

"Abingworth Vineyard is a part of this developing story of modern English wine, the output of which has met with much acclaim internationally,” say the agents.