Go-ahead for poultry units near Market Drayton

People living in Bletchley, near Market Drayton, raised concerns that the plans for Vantage Farm will cause pollution and traffic problems as well as affect the local school and businesses.

But following an appeal by the applicant and a public inquiry, planning inspector Richard Clegg has decided to allow the scheme after highlighting it could boost the local economy.

Shropshire Council, which turned down the plans last year, said it is in the wrong place and is concerned it will have an impact on the environment and local residents.

The applicant, Harrison Farms, appealed against the council's decision to oppose the scheme, which also includes creating control rooms, feed bins, a biomass store, boiler room and a weighbridge.

Moreton Say Parish Council also objected to the plans on the grounds of road safety.

But the applicant said it will lead to road improvements and employment.

Alan Webb, on behalf of the Bletchley Residents Group, said: "There was quite a lot of opposition from the outset and residents will be disappointed by the decision."

Josie Davies, chairman of Moreton Say Parish Council, said: "It was in the hands of the planning inspector and there is nothing we can do about it now."

In his report, Mr Clegg said: "The scale of the investment in the local economy, the opportunity for the farming business to adapt to changing circumstances through diversification, and the improvement in highway safety all carry significant weight.

"The creation of employment opportunities is an important consideration, and the contribution to food supply provides some support for the proposal.

"Social gains would principally be achieved through the role of the development in helping to meet food needs and improving highway safety.

"The undergrounding of electricity transmission lines, tree and hedgerow planting and biodiversity measures would all constitute environmental benefits.

"There would be certain minor-moderate adverse effects on the character and appearance of the area.

"Overall I am satisfied that the proposal would represent a sustainable form of development."

The inquiry heard the units could bring around £4 million to the area and create the equivalent of three full-time jobs and up to 58 more in supporting industries.

One poultry manager, one assistant manager, and various part-time positions would be created at the poultry farm itself.

It also heard the new units would create man-hours equivalent to 57.7 full-time positions indirectly, such as production of feed, delivery and processing.

The applicant and the agent were unavailable to comment.