Extension for free range unit planned

The scheme is for an existing free range egg laying site on Main Road, by Yorkshire-based Priory Holdco.

The timber clad shed would be lengthened by 365m, according to plans, and house an additional 3,000 organic, free range laying hens, resulting in a total of 12,000 birds.

The resulting chicken manure is cleared out twice a week and sold to neighbouring land owners as sustainable organic fertiliser meaning odour for neighbours would be negligible.

The proposal is designed to increase the existing egg collection and packing area, feed bins and control room.

They state: “In poultry terms, a building designed to house 12,000 birds is not considered a large unit.”

Birds have direct access to the outdoor free range area during daylight hours.

The applicants maintain there would be no overall increase in traffic to the site.