FEARS OVER PLAN TO EXPAND 'ANIMAL EXPERIENCE DAYS'

PLANS to keep animal experience days in rural East Staffordshire have been deferred so further discussions over opening times can be discussed.

- By JONATHAN SUTTON Local Democracy Reporter

The experience days involve feeding cattle, grooming animals and educating guests over the running of a rural farm.

Until now, the farm had been using permitted development rights, however those rights limited the use to a maximum of 28 days.

Now Rhosyn Farm, in Barton Gate, wants the ability to operate all year round.

Concerns have been raised from neighbours over the impact of the development.

Resident Phillip Jackson, who was objecting to the proposal, said he lived in the area for the past 30 years and until last year had no concerns with the farm.

He said: "We have no issues with the farm's legal activities, and indeed wish them good luck in their ventures, as long as they are not to the detriment of neighbours' peace and safety.

"Our objections are based on a considerable increase in vehicular traffic to both Scotch Hills Lane and the single track access.