By Hayley Robinson

The Planning Inspectorate has overturned a council order to dismantle a giant marquee at The Barnyard, Gore Farm.

Swale council argued the marquee was detrimental to the surrounding rural area while Gore Farm produced a petition of support signed by 4,000 people.

The marquee, which is approximately 40m long by 15m wide in size, was created at the cost of £250,000 so the farm could host weddings and business conferences in a bid to increase its profitability.

Since it was taken over in 2007 by AC Goatham and Son, it had been losing more than £100,000 a year.

The Planning Inspectorate has found the venue is important for tourism and the local economy.

In its report, it said the potential of the development far outweighed the "very limited harm to the character and appearance of the countryside that arises from it".

The Inspectorate was also critical of the Swale council’s handling of the matter and found that in refusing planning permission and pursuing enforcement action, it had paid too little regard of the importance of the Barnyard as a local community and tourism asset.

Proprietor Clive Goatham said: "I am thrilled with the just decision made by the Planning Inspectorate.

"The job security of my staff has been paramount throughout this entire process and I am delighted their employment at The Barnyard is now safe.

"If Swale council allows us to develop and grow as a business without unnecessary and costly red tape, I give my personal assurance that the future of The Barnyard is safe and will prove to be an integral part of the local community."

An open day will be held in the near future to celebrate the outcome.

Manager Sanjeev Mall said: "We’re over the moon. We hope to hold an open day to say thank you to everyone for their support.

"We also plan to get banners made up saying ‘We’re here to stay’ to put up outside."

A council spokesman said: "The council is disappointed with the decision, as the inspector disagreed that the development would harm the character and appearance of the area."