I learnt at Barton years back and it's been my homebase for years. Also (so nobody makes any snide comments) I've been on Committee there so I have a deep knowledge of the place and am a little biased ..... but I recognise its warts as well as its good points.
It's major differences from LPL are as pointed out, the bumpy grass + it's a CLUB. Some love it, some hate it for that.... it's personal preference at the end of the day.
I'd say the current instructors are all good (I reckon the best crop for some years), but when you're learning it's important to find one that you work well with. I'd add to the list above Ross Lyness (who's a old workmate of mine).
If you learn to fly at Barton you'll be very well equipped for short field techniques, which I think makes you safer. Mcr and LPL proximity means that you can still mix with the heavy metal as required. Taxy & wait at the hold times are minimised.
4 seater situation is improving shortly with another C172 joining the fleet for PPL hire before end Sept - this will enable G-BOIL to do more training bookings. Grobs & 152 OK as long as you are little and light.
As said, lease negotiations now in progress, but you really shouldnt worry if you start training now, you should be qualified before any crunch dates.
Most likely scenario? Personal opinion only (I'm not on Committee now by the way so this is an independent view) - landlords will progressively raise rent and move the field to a more commercial operation over the next 10 years. This will affect management & operation of the place, and may hit private owners harder in terms of hangarage & parking. Personally, I dont reckon it will close for a few years yet.
Conclusion - come over, take a trial lesson, see how it looks from the cockpit, and ENJOY! (Just dont get into the politics...)