Animal centre for restaurant?
THE CONTRASTING fortunes of different types of business during lockdown has been highlighted in a new planning application for a former restaurant.
If the newly submitted plans are approved, Sandal Farm Restaurant on Brighouse and Denholme Road, between Queensbury and Keelham, would become an animal care centre.
The applicants, Leisure 7 Group, say that while the pandemic has devastated the restaurant industry, it has led to a rise in pet ownership, and the need for businesses that provide grooming, training and overnight care for cats and dogs in particular.
The application is for the change of use of the vacant, rural building to allow such activities to take place at the site, and the new business is expected to create five jobs if approved.
And the application, submitted to Bradford Council, say a wind turbine could also be installed at the site to help power the new business.
The planning application says: “The existing restaurant building has been empty and unused for several years, and is now neglected and subject to vandalism.
“However, there has been an increased demand by the public for the companionship of small animals. This has led to an increased need for centres where pets can be groomed, and receive training, day care, and holiday care.
Environmental health officers have said limits on opening hours would need to be imposed to prevent noise nuisance from barking dogs. A decision on the application is expected to be made in the coming weeks.
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