Farmers count cars and the cost (From Warrington Guardian)

Farmers count cars and the cost

A couple have spent thousands hiring people to count cars near their home.

Karol and Mike Bailey said they had to monitor traffic passing Holly Tree Farm to justify to Macclesfield Borough Council why they wanted to move the entrance.

"We've answered every question and now just want to move forward," said Mrs Bailey whose farm exits on to the A556 at Tabley.

The couple want to move the entrance to Tabley Hill Lane so customers do not have to cross the four-lane highway.

The Baileys first submitted their plans almost a year ago but withdrew them before any council discussions so they could provide planners with more information.

Courtyard

"They wanted more surveys on Tabley Hill Lane," she said.

"We've had to employ people to count cars for a long time now."

The Baileys, who first opened their farm shop 15 years ago, have now resubmitted their plans, which include closing the current entrance to create a courtyard with toilets and extra parking.

They also want to turn a barn into a restaurant to encourage shop visitors to sample their home-grown cuisine.

They currently employ four part-time staff and a full-time butcher but the changes could lead to more jobs.

"We want people to have more of an experience when they come here," said Mrs Bailey.