OPPOSITION is mounting to plans to build a livestock building on a scenic spot outside Stanbury.

More than 50 objections have been submitted to the application for the new barn and access track at Ponden Kirk, Ponden Lane.

However, the applicant's agent has argued that the development is needed to reduce the number of sheep that die during winter because they currently remain outside during the coldest months.

He added: "The location of the building has been selected so it can be dug into the hillside, thus reducing its visual effect. The materials selected are of a natural colour so to aid with the building blending into the surrounding area."

The plans for the livestock building were submitted by Walshaw Moor Estate Ltd.

Among the objections registered are comments from the Bronte Society and the RSPB. The RSPB spokesman has said the development would lead to a loss of habitat for birds.

He said: "At the very least this barn could be built somewhere nearby but not within the Special Protected Area / Special Area of Conservation in order to avoid direct loss of habitats.

"If this barn is allowed within these areas the disposal of bedding and animal droppings from the barn will cause further deterioration of the protected habitats unless it is removed completely from site, which is highly unlikely."

Christine Went, trustee of the Bronte Society, comments: "This structure's excessive size, which is out of scale with existing buildings in the area, and the materials from which it would be fabricated, would render it highly and inappropriately visible in a landscape valued for its literary and historical associations.

"The building would be situated midway between Ponden Hall, a grade two listed building, and the natural feature known as Ponden Kirk, both of which have long-standing associations with the Bronte family and their works."

The applicant's agent this week confirmed that the applicant did not wish to comment further.

However, the agent's design and access statement, which accompanies the application, notes: "The main requirement for this building is to improve the welfare and animal husbandry of the sheep flock.

"Winter mortalities have historically been high due to having the flock outside throughout winter. As a result the lambing percentage has also decreased over recent years.

"The intention is that the lambing ewes will be housed within the building throughout winter, and in years of bad weather will be lambed within the building to ensure best animal husbandry is achieved.

"A healthy flock of ewes will be maintained to graze the moor, which is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Grazing is required to ensure that the land is maintained in favourable recovering condition as defined by Natural England."

The application for the barn is being considered by Bradford Council planning officers.