A farmer has had plans for a “modern” building helping to develop his “farming enterprise” approved by the council.

Mr A Shorten is the new owner at Bridge End Farm in Slaidburn, where the new agricultural building is planned.

He submitted plans to Ribble Valley Borough Council in September and these have now been approved by council planning bosses.

The building will include a specialty maternity ward for lambing season, and also provide space to ‘fatten up’ calves.

Bridge End Farm, in Wood House Lane, is a traditional holding with a house and barns, but the lack of modern facilities has been scuppering the development of the farm.

READ MORE: Slaidburn farmer wants to build new agricultural building

A planning statement submitted to the council said: “Bridge End Farm is a traditional holding with a house and barns which has recently been purchases by the applicants, who now want to develop their farming enterprise on the site.

“Currently, there are no modern livestock housing facilities and therefore this application is being made to build a modern farm building.

“This will enable sheep and cattle to be housed over the winter period to improve their welfare and will provide a specialist maternity ward for lambing.

“The intention of the applicant is to increase the numbers of their pedigree herd. The applicant also proposes to buy a minimum of 50 head of cattle at the age of 14-16 weeks old and would fatten these until 24 months. This production cycle would continue on a biennial basis.

READ MORE: Nelson homes site plagued by fly-tippers for 'fifth time'

“However, the growth of these enterprises is not currently possible as there are not appropriate housing facilities available to ensure welfare standards could be maintained through the seasons.”

A previous application was submitted early last year but this was rejected as decision-makers felt it would have detracted from the appearance of the area.

This has been rectified and development can now go ahead within the three-year cut-off period.