Vending
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May 28, 2025
A fruit farm’s popular vending machine operation faces an uncertain future after local planning authorities in Wokingham, England, denied its application for after-the-fact approval, according to a Wokingham Today report.
Heathlands Farm, operated by Hall Hunter Partnership, had sought permission to retain a timber building housing a vending machine that sold farm-produced berries, honey, jams and local eggs. The farm leaders said the machine, restocked up to twice daily and making 20 to 30 sales, allowed direct sales without the overhead of a traditional farm shop.
However, Wokingham Borough Council planning officers rejected the retroactive application, citing negative impacts on the local environment.
“The proposed development would have a detrimental impact on the character and appearance of the area and countryside by reason of the introduction of extensive graveled hardstanding and close-boarded fencing, together with the removal of hedgerows and trees, which has resulted in a stark, urbanized appearance that is visually intrusive and at odds with the rural character of the area,” a councilmember told the news outlet.
Concerns were also raised by Wokingham Without Parish Council regarding the farm’s failure to seek prior planning permission and potential traffic safety issues, particularly with a school opposite the farm and anticipated increases in local traffic. The farm had noted that peak vending machine use often coincided with school pick-up and drop-off times.
