Many sleepless nights later and at last we have the go ahead for our exciting new eco project. The planners have agreed on the development of Jim’s Yard; an eco gallery, new office space for my copywriting business, HQ for Lincolnshire Tree Services and brand new eco luxe accommodation for two.
The plan is to replace derelict outbuildings on the existing site to use the space sympathetically to its full potential and show off the natural beauty of the native hardwood timber we fell and recycle. As well as housing Jim's commercial tree surgery business, a wood workshop is planned as retail space for hand turned wood products using local felled timber. Visitors will be able to try out Lincolnshire specialities in the tea room next door using locally sourced ingredients, visit a creative gallery space, doubling as a multi-use hub for art and crafts courses and exhibitions. All this under the Wold’s brilliant stars away from the light pollution of the cities; to a cleaner way of life where you can still see the sky and bluebells adorn our forests and pathways.
It promises to be a total sensation, a niche in our region’s offerings as our businesses diversify and move with the responsibility of living in modern times. We’ve taken our deep rooted belief in all things eco to create this exciting new project in as sustainable way as possible. A biomass boiler and harvested rainwater will ensure we have only a positive impact on the environment. Over the last 7 years we've been working out ideas for this natural progression, as well as salvaging everything we possibly can from bricks to old doors and local stone. Jim has started charcoal making with coppiced timber. And overall is making good but slow progress. For me, 17 years into a successful career of copywriting for national and international clients, it's a great way to put something back into the county. I relish the opportunity to turn my marketing talents and experience to something sustainable, symbiotic and tangible and help a few other local businesses along the way. The plan is to showcase all manner of Lincolnshire talent, revive traditional skills and help sustain a rural economy in a positive and rewarding way. We aim to create a unique place to visit and a heavenly place to stay.
It's early days but watch this space...