Giant chicken shed may house 150,000

Up to 150,000 chickens would be kept in three buildings at Meadowland Poultry in Sleap, near Wem, if the project is given the go-ahead at a planning meeting next week. And staff at the site would be able to complete up to 7.6 cycles per year, according to a report.

About 50,000 chickens would be kept in each building, potentially creating 2,366 tonnes of meat a year. The plans also include a biomass boiler building and an worker's dwelling.

Peter Richards, from Peter Richards & Co Property Consultants in Prees Heath, said the process would create the equivalent of seven jobs plus indirect employment associated with veterinary, engineering and processing.

But fears have been raised by members of nearby Shropshire Aero Club, who fear the development could affect air quality and create an unwanted smell. Fears have also been raised about increased traffic in the area.

Mr Richards said the development would mean the site would be utilised more efficiently.

He said: "There is a national shortage of poultry in the UK. At the present time Meadowland Poultry do not have a processor lined up but there are a number interested.

"The intention is to employ a full time manager who will reside on site, the remaining of the labour provision will be a combination of part time and casual labour at peak times.

"In addition to the direct labour, the development will also support local businesses in the agricultural services industry."

Jack Wilson, clerk for Myddle and Broughton Parish Council, said: "This is an area that has been used in the past to house chickens.

"Some nearby farms have raised concerns but the parish council can't find a reason to support the proposal or oppose it."

The plan will be discussed at Shropshire Council's north planning committee on Tuesday at the Council Chamber on Castle View in Oswestry. The meeting will start at 2pm.