TWO Barnsley farmers have invested in a new barn to grow their family business and boost the local rural economy.
Adam and Kelly Richardson have added a 150 square metre barn to their family business, Lower Coates Farm, at Silkstone Common.
The new asset will allow them to expand their diverse programme of educational animal experiences and events.
The couple’s investment has been backed by a Rural Business Grant delivered by Barnsley Council through the Enterprising Barnsley programme and supported by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).
Adam and Kelly estimate the new windproof and watertight barn will enable them to increase business activity by at least ten per cent and create a new full-time job within the next few months.
Kelly said: “The response we’ve had from the public and local community since we started offering farmyard experiences of all kinds 18 months ago and has been amazing and we’ve already grown every aspect of the business in response to demand.
“But, it’s been so frustrating having to say no to some enquiries because we just haven’t had a large enough weather-proof space to cater for them.
“Our new, secure and accessible barn gives us loads of potential to do much more and we are excited to get going and grow the business further.”
