15 April 2010

2 minute read

Europe

The application made to North Kesteven District Council was withdrawn earlier this week.

Philip Rowston, from the Council said that more information was required following a report from the Environment Agency.

The first concern raised involved potential pollution to the aquafer from the spreading of slurry.

There is already a certain degree of groundwater pollution in the area, Mr Rowston told TheCattleSite.

Mr Rowston said that there were also concerns about the competency of the pipe network that would be used for distribution of treated slurry and also the resevoir used to store it.

"The applicants must prove that they have chosen the most appropriate site. With a thin chalky soil overlaying the aquafer and already some extent of nitrate pollution, the applicants will have to have some serious discussions with the Environment Agency," said Mr Rowston.

The second concern woas odour management from the farm.

Mr Rowston said that whilst the application had been withdrawn, he expected the applicants to continue to work and negotiate with the district council to correct the problems raised. It could still be possible for the first cows to be brought onto the farm in September as originally planned.

The application has been a topic of debate over the last couple of month, provoking angry remarks from animal welfare groups. However the application has also seen support from within the industry.

TheCattleSite News Desk