APPROVAL has been given to convert a farm outbuilding in the green belt into a yoga studio and nutrition bar in Pickmere.

Cheshire East Council’s planning department has given permission to Mr D and Mr R Platt to make the change of use of the former cow shed at Mere View Farm, Park Lane.

The development will also provide parking for patrons, and ‘provide a facility for cyclists passing through Pickmere’, according to agents Emery Planning.

In a design and access statement to the council, Emery wrote: “The proposed development will provide training rooms for strengthening and conditioning, Pilates and yoga. 

“The nutrition bar will cater to the users of the training rooms before and after sessions, along with providing a social space for the commercial offices on site to conduct informal meetings or take coffee breaks/have lunch during the working week.

“Diversification at Mere View Farm has always been a fundamental part of the business model and is key for its long term viability. The farm over a number of years has successfully diversified into commercial and residential property, the leisure industry and recreational activity across the holding. The agricultural use of the land continues alongside these uses.”

As part of the approval, planners have attached conditions to the operation of the facility — with opening limited to 8am to 9pm midweek, 9am to 9pm on Saturdays, and 9am to 5pm on Sundays.

Loud music is also prohibited from 6pm to 9am every day.