An historic family-run farm in Meriden wants full planning permission to open a children's nursery in the latest plans to diversify the business.

Berryfields Farm, which has over 90 years of history, wants to convert part of an existing agricultural building to a children's day nursery for more than 100 children.

It is the latest plan for the Berkswell Road site where there is already a farm shop and restaurant, and a 33 bedroom hotel which was built after getting the go-ahead from Solihull planners in 2023.

As the Local Democracy Reporting Service previously reported Solihull planners have already given prior approval confirming the principal for the building to be a nursery and having associated parking on adjacent land – with the applicant now calling this the "fallback option".

That plan was approved despite a strong objection from Meriden Parish Council.

But the applicant says approving this application for full planning permission would support economic growth, local communities and "provide opportunities for local employment".

A planning statement in the latest application lodged with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) from operations director Tom Barber says: "The Barn at Berryfields and Berryfields Farm is an independent, family-run business with a history spanning more than 90 years.

"Over that time, it has evolved into an award-winning rural enterprise.

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"Historically, the business focused predominantly on pig breeding and rearing.

"However, in common with many modern farming enterprises, it has successfully diversified to secure its long-term sustainability.

"The development includes the demolition of a lean-to extension attached to the existing agricultural building to create dedicated outdoor play areas for the nursery.

"In addition, six redundant agricultural buildings located to the south of the main barn would be demolished to facilitate the provision of suitable access, parking and turning areas.

"The nursery will operate Monday to Friday between 7.30am and 6.30pm and will cater for up to 120 children, ranging from baby to pre-school age."

A consultation is underway with a closing date for submissions of September 24.

To view the plans and submit a comment search for application PL/2026/01542/PPFL at https://publicaccess.solihull.gov.uk/online-applications.