LEIGHTON FARM, LEIGHTON, POWYS

Leighton Farm is the most complete Victorian farm in Wales and consists of over 20 listed buildings, 16 of these Grade II*. The whole farm complex has huge significance, exemplified by the listing, as farm buildings are seldom given such strong statutory protection. Christopher Leyland bought the land in 1845 and, two years later gave it to his nephew John Naylor. Naylor, who was a Liverpudlian banker, created the farm estate to the designs of the architect W H Gee. Having been broken up in the early 20th century, many of the buildings had fallen into a state of disrepair. Powys County Council purchased Leighton in 1931.

The Council, recognising the need to find a sustainable future for this important site invited The Prince's Regeneration Trust to facilitate a Planning Day bringing together key stakeholders and specialist heritage bodies to consider a range of new uses. It was attended by over 40 people including members of the community.

As a result of this innovative session The Prince's Regeneration Trust has looked at a range of possible options for the conservation and regeneration of the site and has reported to Powys County Council on the potential to conserve the buildings and site in a way that meets local economic and social needs while enhancing its historic character.