Backing for new cattle shed

A farmer looks set to get the go-ahead for a new agricultural building at Lightwood Green despite its large size.

A planning application for the new shed has to go before Cheshire East's planning committee because it exceeds the maximum 1,000 square metres that is normally allowed in open countryside.

A report to Cheshire East says the site on land next to Lower Lightwood Green Farm, Whitchurch Road, Lightwood Green is within the Open Countryside and consists of the farmhouse and a number of agricultural units surrounded by open paddock.

The new shed will be about 29 metres long and more than 40 metres wide making it more 1,180 square metres. It has a pitched roof nearly 6 metres from ground floor level at its highest point.

Councillors are told the purpose-built shed is needed for housing of cattle in the winter and that the new building will enable the farm to further expand and develop.

The report by planning officials states: "As a result of this justification, and the clear evidence of the existing working nature of this farm from the site visit, it is considered that the proposed building would be essential for the purpose of agriculture and as such would adhere with Policy NE.2 of the Local Plan."

The nearest neighbouring dwelling is about 325 metres to the south of the development and "would not create any issues for neighbouring amenity by way of loss of privacy, visual intrusion or loss of light," says the report.

Planning officers suggest that plans be approved as "the proposal would have a minimal impact upon the character of the Open Countryside, be of an acceptable design, would have a minimal impact upon neighbouring amenity."

Cheshire East councillors meet on Wednesday June 1st to consider the proposals.

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