A bakery business is preparing to open at a historic Staffordshire estate.
Thorpe Estate, at Thorpe Constantine near Tamworth, is transforming one of its heritage buildings into a new bakery space, which will be occupied and operated by Silver Tree Bakery, currently based in Sutton Coldfield.
The project has been made possible thanks to £50,000 from Lichfield District Council through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF).
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 bakery is due to open at the 2,500-acre working estate on Friday, 3 April.
Thorpe Estate director Tristan Lillingston thanked the council and said: “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.”
Silver Tree Bakery founder Kirk Bick 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.”
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.
Councillor Janice Silvester-Hall, Lichfield District Council’s cabinet member for visitor economy, ecology and 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.”
