Since May 2021, Poppywood Alpacas on Brownlow Road in Horwich has been operating to the public. A retrospective planning application was submitted for the continued use of the site, as well as the erection of a detached timer building which operates as a café, gift shop and and classroom for visitors.
“Many of the repeat visits are from groups from Bolton and surrounding boroughs who bring young adults and children with special needs. These include Bolton Smiley Faces, the Downs Syndrome support group, The Sapphire Partnership supporting young people with neuro-diverse needs and disabilities, Bolton Council’s fostering service and care in the community groups."
The council’s planning team said the alpaca walking was not an inappropriate use of the greenbelt as an outdoor recreation. It also said the timber building and field shelter were appropriate facilities which did not harm the openness or purposes of the green belt.