Polegate could see new ‘unique events venue’ built on farmland

Land on Priesthawes Farm near Polegate could be transformed into a ‘unique events venue’ if plans for a tree church are given the all-clear, according to documents submitted to Wealden District Council.

Plans say the 7.5 hectare site is located on rural land north east of Polegate and includes a former dairy farm that has been diversified with a holiday let, business units, storage facilities and a livery.

The plans include the erection of a 160.5 sq metre tree church – a metal frame that trees grow around to create a church structure.

The site would also include a marquee, toilets, shelter in the form of sails/pagodas, car parking for 40 vehicles and a landscaped garden area.

Events such as weddings, funerals and meals for up to 200 guests could take place on a seasonal basis during the period of May to September.

The documents say the aim is to further diversify the farm’s income so it can continue as a productive and viable agricultural unit.

The developers say this would boost the economy and create employment opportunities.

There are two ways of accessing the site, via Hailsham Road and Glynleigh Road, with a nearby bus stop and railway station offering guests transport options to and from the venue.

According to the plans, the metal frame would be covered with several trees and the car park would be covered in a grasscrete surface both in the aim of the developments ‘blending into the locality’.

The plans said, “The proposal is deemed to be entirely appropriate and sympathetic to the character and appearance of the immediate locality and the landscape setting.”

Members of the public can comment on this application until March 5 by going on the Wealden District Council website.