Forsters advises Frank Butler Farms on the development of Barnsgrove

Rolling green hills are adorned with scattered trees and stone walls, creating a peaceful rural landscape. In the distance, soft hills rise under a clear, bright sky.

Forsters’ Rural Land and Business team has been crucial to the development of Barnsgrove, a new private membership club near Greywell, Hampshire. Owned by James and Jo Butler of Frank Butler Farms, Barnsgrove spans 20,000 sq.ft. and offers a clubhouse, café, bar, fitness studio, gym, private offices, and wellness rooms. This project aims to provide locals with a space to work, exercise, relax, and socialise.

Forsters supported the Butler’s to transform their farm’s future amid economic challenges.

Jo Butler commented, “our journey to get to where we are today has not been an easy one, especially when it came to planning – S278 and S106.  Forsters have been such a support to the business throughout that process.  Barnsgrove is not a standalone business project at Frank Butler Farms.  Like any other farm in the current economic climate, we’ve had to constantly look at alternative sources of income and safeguard the farm for future generations by utilising the land we’re custodians of. Alongside Barnsgrove, Forsters have also helped us with legal support for a solar farm project; with new commercial property lets; refinancing; and in securing sales on development areas we’ve managed to recoup as a result of coming out of dairy”.

Victoria Salter-Galbraith commented, “Forsters has a long-term relationship with Frank Butler Farms and I have been fortunate to act for Jo and James for most of my career. Jo and James are both so driven and forward-thinking so it’s always exciting to be involved with the next step in their plan for the farm which has been in James’ family for several generations. Having spent some time working at Barnsgrove, I can attest to what a wonderful space they have created right in the heart of the North Hampshire countryside.”

Forsters’ advise has been pivotal in realising Barnsgrove, ensuring it stands as a testament to community-focused development.

A woman smiles directly at the camera, wearing a green shirt and earrings, with brown wavy hair, against a neutral background.
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Victoria Salter-Galbraith

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