A funding grant is helping a rural business near Lichfield bring a new onsite bakery to life.
The historic Thorpe Estate, at Thorpe Constantine, was awarded £50,000 through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) to support the transformation of one of its heritage buildings into a new bakery space, which will be occupied and operated by Silver Tree Bakery from Friday 3 April.
The funding has supported essential works to the building, including roof improvements, new windows and doors, and the installation of thermal insulation, helping to preserve the historic structure while improving its long-term sustainability.
The REPF funding, which comes from the Government, is designed to support micro and small businesses, encourage greener, low-carbon farming, and enable the conversion of rural buildings for new commercial uses.
By introducing a food and beverage offering on site, Thorpe Estate aims to create a vibrant new destination for local residents and visitors, and a new outlet for Silver Tree Bakery’s artisanal produce.
Councillor Janice Silvester-Hall, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Visitor Economy, Ecology & Climate Change, said:
“I’m delighted that we have been able to deliver a Rural England Prosperity Fund grant for this development.
“The funding is helping to breathe new life into a building with a focus on heritage preservation and sustainability while creating jobs and encouraging rural economic growth. I wish Silver Tree Bakery every success.”
Tristan Lillingston, Director at Thorpe Estate, said:
“We’d like to thank Lichfield District Council for its support. This grant has been a catalyst for our vision allowing us to invest in high-quality, sustainable materials that respect the history of the estate while ensuring we are prepared for a greener future. We can’t wait to welcome the wider community from April 2026.”
Kirk Bick, Founder of Silver Tree Bakery, said:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Lichfield District Council for their support through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) and to Thorpe Estate for welcoming us into such a special setting.
“This project perfectly aligns with our values around craftsmanship, sustainability and community, and we’re genuinely excited to bring Silver Tree Bakery to Thorpe Estate and become part of its future from April.”
Thorpe Estate is a 2,500-acre working estate focused on sustainable farming, conservation and rural diversification.
The REPF forms a key part of Lichfield District Council’s broader Lichfield 2050 strategy, supporting the creation of prosperous, resilient communities encouraging entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable growth.