Councillors have unanimously approved plans to develop an agricultural building and access track in Oxenhope.

Members of Keighley and Shipley Area Planning Panel considered an application for Marsh Top Farm in Marsh Lane.

Proposals for the farm, which keeps livestock and sells meat produce locally, had been recommended for approval by planning officers.

Speaking at last Wednesday’s planning panel meeting, Oxenhope Parish Council chairman Councillor Neal Cameron said he strongly backed the plans.

“I feel it’s important to support sustainable businesses in the rural community,” he added. “This is an old Oxenhope farming family, and there are precedents in the area for having new agricultural buildings developed.”

Agent for the applicant Jo Steel said the building would be used to shelter livestock during bad weather and also as a fodder store. “The farm business is becoming more successful and the new building would be a major asset,” he added.

The plans had encountered opposition in the form of six letters of objection. These claimed the scale of the building would be out of proportion to neighbouring properties. Objectors also warned of an increase in noise and smells if the development went ahead.

Council planning manager Ian Wilson said at 36 metres long and 11 metres wide, the new property would be substantial.

However, he explained there was no intention to use the building for the intensive rearing of livestock.