A substantial ditch on farmland near Halifax presents dangers for animals grazing there, planning officials were told.

The uneven landscape has caused difficulties for animals and made it harder for farm workers to reach them at the Bradshaw Lane site in Bradshaw.

Members of Calderdale Council’s planning committee signalled broad approval, but further details about how the levelling would be carried out must be provided before full permission is given.

Mr S. Batty lodged an application with Calderdale seeking approval to re-grade and level the existing grazing land to remove these dangers.

The holding is home to nine alpacas and runs a scheme that involves walking these creatures with disabled and disadvantaged children, an initiative arranged with Labour councillor Mr Andrew Walsh who represents Bradford South, according to paperwork from surveyors Michael Denton Associates.

Planners heard that the re-grading would use earth already on site to create a practical area suitable for animals.

No objections were raised by officials, though they want more information because of the nearby public footpath and the location within green belt land, which means council approval is required before building can begin.

Planning officers stated that sufficient paperwork has been provided showing the scheme serves a genuine agricultural purpose. They noted, however, that prior approval is considered necessary to assess the positioning, design, and visual appearance of the proposed earthworks given potential effects on the public right of way south of the holding and implications for green belt openness.

Michael Denton Associates noted that besides the alpacas, the holding contains sheep and expects eventually to keep horses.

The submitted paperwork states that groundwork on the paddock involves cutting and filling the steep ravine across the property, livestock have experienced difficulties because of this terrain, making these operations vital to maintain the land’s usability for grazing. The work will involve cutting and filling the existing ravine running through the property, with no external materials being brought onto the site, the paperwork explains.

Essentially, officials require additional particulars about implementation methods and final appearance. They indicated that further information is needed to ensure an acceptable final appearance for the site.