Hooper Green Farm, a longstanding family farm and the site of an annual Good Friday horse show for over 40 years, faces imminent threat from a proposed development project that includes building 1,450 homes and a £70 million link road. John Hargreaves, the 83-year-old farmer born on the land, fears losing not only the farm but his entire way of life, as the development plans accelerate faster than initially expected. Despite assurances that he could keep his house, John emphasizes that the farm’s land is irreplaceable, especially since it currently supports around 53 horses that rely on ample grazing space.

John also expresses deep concern about the broader impact of the development on the Westhoughton community, predicting severe traffic congestion and a loss of the town’s character. The uncertainty and disruption have taken a significant emotional toll on him, underscoring the personal and communal stakes involved in the proposed changes.