A significant redevelopment project is underway at Brocksbushes Farm, located just outside Corbridge.

What began as a small Pick Your Own Fruit farm that was only open for eight weeks a year has evolved over the past four decades and is now embarking on an exciting new phase.

Groundwork for the project started this month, marking the beginning of the construction of a new and larger Farm Shop and Café, as well as a dedicated Play Barn for children.

This development has been the result of years of planning for Harry Dickinson and his family, who own and operate the business.

Since 2017, the Dickinson family has been working on developing the future vision for Brocksbushes.

Harry said: "We are really excited to finally start work.

"This brand-new home will allow us to expand our year-round offer, but the ethos on which Brocksbushes is built will stay the same - shop, eat, and pick local!"

Honouring their heritage as a family-run business that has reached its 40th year of operation, the Dickinsons are committed to building a sustainable and future-proof enterprise.

The new building will incorporate the best aspects of the past four decades, while providing loyal customers with an enhanced shopping and dining experience, as well as year-round activities for families.

Chris Jewitt, the founder and CEO of Food and Drink North East (FADNE), expressed excitement about the project.

He said: "This development will help improve the connection between our region’s diverse network of producers and the growing number of customers who are hungry for more sustainable, locally sourced food and drink. We can’t wait to visit!”

The development is expected to be completed by spring/summer 2024.

In the meantime, it's business as usual as Brocksbushes continues to operate its Pick Your Own Fruit season.

Situated behind the current Shop and Tea Room, the construction work will be visible to those who come to pick strawberries during the summer.