Shepherd’s Hut Holiday Stay Approved At West Wight Alpaca Farm

A high-quality shepherd’s hut featuring an outdoor kitchen, sauna and mini-meadow is set to be installed at an Isle of Wight alpaca and llama farm after being granted planning permission.

The Isle of Wight Council approved an application from N. and M. Payne to site the one-bedroom holiday accommodation at West Wight Alpacas, located between Wellow and Thorley.

The hut is intended for singles and couples taking short breaks.

Planning officers said the proposal would provide the farm and visitor attraction with a more stable income stream, reducing reliance on day-to-day weather conditions.

Two local residents objected to the plans, raising concerns about potential overdevelopment and noise.

One resident said the hut could change the character of the area and set a precedent for further development, arguing it would be out of keeping with the quiet nature of Wellow.

However, Shalfleet Parish Council raised no objections, and Isle of Wight Council planners concluded the development would not harm the rural character of the area or create unacceptable noise for nearby properties.

In their decision report, officers said they were satisfied the proposal would not result in overdevelopment or adverse visual impact, and that noise levels would remain acceptable.

The approval includes seven planning conditions, covering biodiversity net gain, drainage, environmental protection, highway safety, and ensuring the accommodation is used solely as holiday accommodation.