Family farm denied expansion as shop and cafe plans are kicked to the kerb

A family farm has been denied their expansion after their plan for a new shop and café was rejected by the council due to the potential impact on green belt land.

Bank Top Farm, in Littleborough, were hoping to open a farm shop, café and community room in order to expand their current business which sells home-produced meats. Currently their farm produce is sold from a ‘farm shop’ trailer which is towed to the bottom of the farm lane on Hollingworth Road.

The owners saw this expansion was the next stage of their 20 year journey to redevelop the farm since purchasing it back in 1993.

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During that time they have rebuilt the property and brought the farm back into operation with sheep, cattle, pigs, chickens and turkeys.

The design and access statement said: “The cafe will be an important element to generate additional income for the farm. It will enhance the trip to the farm shop and be available for passing trade.

“The addition of a community room would enable Bank Top Farm to develop links with local schools to support the teaching of the national curriculum in areas of ‘Farm to Fork’ to help children understand where food comes from and to appreciate the environment and ecology of the area. The community room could also be used as a meeting place for local groups such as Young Farmers, arts and crafts and walkers.

“The development would facilitate the diversification of the farm which is key to ensuring its viability going forward.”

The planning application submitted by the farm received 104 letters of support and only two objections. One concern recognised the busy Hollingworth Road from which the site is accessed and how this plan could add