Thousands object to planned Vale of Belvoir poultry farm which could house 1.76 million birds every year

Nearly 8,000 people have signed a petition objecting to a planned new intensive poultry farm in the Vale of Belvoir.
Artist's impression of a proposed poultry farm at Cropwell Bishop which could house up to 1.76 million birds a year EMN-170719-150428001Artist's impression of a proposed poultry farm at Cropwell Bishop which could house up to 1.76 million birds a year EMN-170719-150428001
Artist's impression of a proposed poultry farm at Cropwell Bishop which could house up to 1.76 million birds a year EMN-170719-150428001

Highslade Properties want to build four units to house up to 220,000 birds on a site adjoining their established arable farm at Cropwell Bishop.

The proposed steel and concrete sheds would be for rearing broiler chickens from day-old chicks to finished table weight birds.

Up to eight flocks could pass through the buildings every year, which equates to 1.76 million birds.

The £3 million scheme, which also includes associated infrastructure on land east of the Fosse Way, will be considered by the planning committee at Rushcliffe Council.

Members will be handed the petition, which has been organised by Animal rights charity PETA UK and which includes signatures of residents and others opposing the scheme.

They say the farming method will be cruel for the birds and the site would have a detrimental effect on the local environment.

PETA director Elisa Allen said: “Thousands of compassionate people have spoken, and Rushcliffe Borough Council should heed their concerns for animal welfare, the environment, and the health of the community.”

More than 250 people have also written to oppose the plan with 31 supporting it.

The applicants, in a report to go before councillors, said the poultry farm was in an appropriate greenbelt location in open countryside and the design was in keeping with the surroundings.