Cranswick, a company based in Hull, has recently faced opposition to its proposal for a large pig and poultry unit in Norfolk. The company’s application to expand an existing site to accommodate 14,000 pigs and 714,000 chickens near the villages of Methwold and Feltwell is set to be reviewed by the King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council’s planning committee on April 3rd. However, planning officers have recommended rejecting the application citing concerns about potential adverse effects on European protected sites and insufficient environmental information provided by Cranswick.
In response to the recommendations, Cranswick has remained steadfast in its commitment to the project, emphasizing the benefits it believes the development will bring. The company asserts that the expansion will lead to better utilization of local land, enhanced welfare for pigs and poultry, and improved British food security by reducing reliance on imports. Despite the setbacks, Cranswick has expressed confidence in the merits of its proposal and looks forward to addressing the planning committee’s concerns.
The proposal has not been without controversy, as evidenced by the significant number of objections received by the council, including a petition with over 42,000 signatures and objections from various stakeholders, including parish councils, MPs, and NGOs. Cranswick acknowledges the concerns raised by local residents and stakeholders and has endeavored to address them. However, the company has criticized the council’s handling of the application, citing factual errors and inaccuracies in the planning officer’s report.
Cranswick has highlighted discrepancies in the report, such as inaccuracies in referencing sustainability responses provided by the company and misleading statements regarding the need for a climate change assessment. The company has expressed disappointment in the council’s handling of the application process, noting a lack of clarity in requests for additional information and a perceived lack of impartiality in the decision-making process.
Despite these challenges, Cranswick remains resolute in its belief in the positive impact of the proposed development on the local and national economy, as well as on UK food security. The company urges the planning committee to consider the broader benefits of the project and support its application in light of its potential contributions.
In response to Cranswick’s comments, a council spokesperson has stated that the applications will be evaluated professionally and objectively, with due consideration given to the planning issues at hand. The spokesperson has assured that Cranswick’s concerns will be relayed to decision-makers and that the company will have the opportunity to address the committee directly during the planning committee meeting.
In conclusion, the proposed pig and poultry unit in Norfolk has sparked debate and contention, with Cranswick standing firm in its defense of the project. As the planning committee prepares to make a decision on the application, both proponents and opponents of the development await the outcome, which will have significant implications for the local community and the broader agricultural industry.
