A prize-winning beef farmer near Holsworthy is planning to establish a rural tourism and leisure facility by creating four fishing lakes.

Ian Ellacott, a fifth-generation farmer known for raising pedigree Red Ruby Devon cattle, has submitted a planning application to construct the lakes alongside picnic and angling areas, an access track, parking, and landscaping at Lower Larkworthy Farm.

In documents submitted to Torridge District Council, Mr. Ellacott said he had recently diversified his farming operations by converting agricultural buildings into luxury tourist accommodations.

“The applicant aims to optimize land use by balancing food production, profitability, and biodiversity enhancement, while providing opportunities for visitors to North Devon,” the documents state.

The proposed fishing lakes would cater to the public as well as guests staying at the holiday accommodations, promoting greater awareness and accessibility of rural angling as a sport.

The site, which is unsuitable for crop cultivation due to wet conditions, is primarily used as pastureland. However, grazing cattle have caused soil compaction, and the land has been underutilized in recent years.

Mr. Ellacott’s plans include offering fishing lessons at the lakes and creating opportunities for part-time employment and work experience for local residents.

Ashwater Parish Council in its consultation response to the application stated that it did not object to the plans, which can be viewed on the Torridge District Council planning portal under reference 1/1081/2024/FULM.