Highland cow petting farm refused over safety fears

THE owners of a Highland cow experience have been refused planning permission for the business after highways safety concerns were raised.

- By HANNAH BROWN Local democracy reporter

Highland Cow Cottage Limited had applied for retrospective planning permission to keep using their land for the Highland cow petting business.

The owners also asked for permission to keep a number of temporary buildings and six afternoon tea pods at the site off Church End in Arrington.

The plans divided opinion with 43 comments shared in support and 18 objections lodged.

Some of those who shared support for the application said the business offered “inclusive, compassionate, and educational rural experiences”, while also supporting tourism in the area.

One supporter said: “I think this is a great initiative for a local village close to where I live.

“I have lived in the area for many years and this is a unique opportunity to be at one with nature and to also learn about farm animals in a natural environment.”

However, those who objected to the plans raised concerns about the safety of people walking from the proposed parking at The Hardwicke Arms along narrow lanes to the Highland cow experience site.

One objector said: “Living in Church Lane I see first hand the problems that extra vehicular and pedestrian traffic to Highland Cow Cottage have caused.