Plan unveiled to ban wild animals from events

Rules which would ban wild animals from events on council land in Calderdale are set to be discussed by councillors.

The policy, which would also apply to film and TV productions working in the area, aims to strengthen animal welfare measures.

It follows the cancellation of the Todmorden Country Fair in May 2025, after concerns were raised about planned camel racing.

A Calderdale Council report said the incident had shown the need for clearer standards and stronger checks on events involving animals.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the council has received 17 event applications involving animals since April, ranging from dog shows and donkey rides to the camel racing.

Officers said the council had a legal duty to protect animal welfare and ensure public safety.

Labour cabinet member for regeneration and transport, Sarah Courtney, added clear guidance should help all concerned.

"I'm an avid animal lover, and know that the vast majority of event organisers take the welfare of animals just as seriously as I and the council do, and that these events are put on in a caring and considerate way," she said.

"However, we want to make sure that there is clear guidance and minimum standards, so when animals feature at local events, both event organisers and our events team can feel reassured that everything is being done to safeguard animal welfare and protect members of the public.

"We've also extended this policy to cover film and TV productions, due to the growing reputation of the borough as a filming destination."

Cabinet councillors will discuss the plans on 16 March and are expected to recommend them to the full council for approval.

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