Campaigners fear chicken farm concerns 'ignored'

Campaigners fear residents' concerns about plans for a chicken farm have been "completely ignored" as a council looks set to give the development the go-ahead.

Gareth Hart wants to replace existing pig housing on Cross Green Farm, Hopton Road, Thelnetham with four poultry breed sheds for up to 39,999 chickens.

Despite a petition having received more than 1,000 objections, West Suffolk Council's Development Control Committee plans to give the application the green light. It is due to be discussed at a meeting later.

The development was considered by planning officers to be "acceptable and in compliance with relevant development plan policies".

But Maya Pardo, director of Communities Against Factory Farming, still holds out hope that planning bosses will think again before approving the project.

She said: "It's very disappointing and surprising to think that the wishes of people who live in a community can just be completely ignored by a planning system.

"I hope the elected representatives who will be making the decision...will really listen to the community."

The plans were recommended for approval in February during a Development Control Committee by seven votes to six. The development received 19 official objections.

Hart said the project would ensure the expansion of his operation and help secure the long-term financial viability of his farm.

If the plans are officially approved, 250 old sow buildings will be swapped out for new sheds, an administration block and a gatehouse.

After the previous meeting, Susan Coe, a member of Thelnetham Parish Council, said opponents would seek legal advice over a potential judicial review.

In addition to concerns about animal welfare, residents also feared the impact that more than 280 extra vehicles each year could have on roads and safety.

A highways officer told councillors, however, that the application would not have a "severe and cumulative" impact on roads.

Ahead of the meeting, Thelnetham resident Darren Lewitt, said additional "careful consideration" was needed before any decision.

"The application was previously approved by just one vote, which we believe makes further scrutiny particularly important," he said.

"We are not against farming; we are asking for a decision based on accurate facts and a proper understanding of the impact this development could have.

"Since the decision, there has been a further road traffic incident on one of the routes of concern. We believe these issues deserve careful consideration."

West Suffolk Council said it would not be able to comment until after a decision had been made.

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