Man plans a goat farm ‘for my family to enjoy’

PLANS for a goat breeding and milk production facility in Lepton have been submitted to Kirklees Council.

The application outlines a proposal, made by James Baxter, to build a new multi-purpose building on land he currently owns at Gawthorpe Lane.

Planning documents submitted to the Council indicate that, if given the green light, the agricultural building would be used for goat breeding, milk production and equipment storage. A garage would also form part of the build.

And in a letter accompanying the application, Mr Baxter said the proposed development was being made “for the absolute enjoyment of my family residing at the address.”

The request is being submitted under ‘Permitted Development’ rights and Mr Baxter outlined six reasons as to why the two-floor building would meet its requirements.

These include the building not being erected closer to the highway than the ‘established building line’ allows and the land on which the development is proposed not being of special interest, or an area of outstanding national beauty.

In a letter sent to the planning officer, which has subsequently been published to Kirklees Council’s planning portal, Mr Baxter wrote: “Our aim is self-sufficiency and enjoying our land and surrounding environment.

“Goats have resided at this address for 30 years, 20 of those under my ownership. We wish to extend this family to a proper breeding facility of White Saneen goats with a view to once again producing our own supply of goat milk.

“Our goats have provided entertainment at local schools and for passing walkers for years and are well loved.”

Mr Baxter added that as he owns the field directly behind the proposed building and had the capacity to lease the adjacent field from the local farmer, he could “easily provide” for eight goats.

And he said the building would not be for intensive livestock use.

Accompanying the plans was a letter of support from the local farmer, Paul Collins.

The application will now be considered by Kirklees Council planning officers with an initial target for a decision set for January 11, 2021.