Report for Item 6 - Swale Borough Council

2.6 (Contd) PART 2
• Detrimental effect on the adjoining conservation area.
• The business plan does not include all set up costs.
• The proposed site plan is incorrect – the site is not adjacent to Wardwell
Lane.
• The proposal would have a detrimental effect on the conservation area.
• The business plan does not include an upfront cost for the 12,000 chickens.
The Environment Agency raise no objections.
Southern Gas Networks notes that there is a Low/Medium/Intermediate Pressure
gas main in the proximity of the application site. No mechanical excavations are to
take place above or within 0.5m of the Low pressure and medium pressure system
and 3 metres of the intermediate pressure system. Safe digging practices should be
adopted.
Natural England has no comment to make on the proposal. They do note however,
that if the Council is aware of the presence of any protected species on the site then
the Standing Advice should be referred to. Biodiversity enhancements are
suggested.
The Head of Environmental Services has no objection to the proposal. However,
they recommend conditions to ensure that loading and unloading deliveries or
collections only take place within restricted hours and that the details of any
mechanical ventilation system are agreed before they are installed.
The Council’s agricultural consultant has raised the following comments:
• The design and size of the building appears in accord with what would
typically provide for a modern unit of this size and type. The building is
therefore necessary for the applicant’s farming plans.
• The applicant has secured a successful outlet for the eggs in principle and a
source for much of the funding for the required capital investment has been
identified. There appears to be clear evidence of a firm intention and ability to
develop the enterprise.
• The operation of the free-range unit would generate an essential functional
requirement for someone to be resident on the site at most times for the
proper care of the hens. This would enable a speedy response in the event
that the hens were attacked or panicked by other intrusion or sudden noise,
and would provide close attention to their environment, particularly when shut
up at night to ensure ventilation and watering is adequate. Residential
attendance also provides necessary cover in the event of a fire, storm and
from trespassers. DEFRA’s Welfare Code for laying hens does not specifically
state that on-site residence is an essential condition on all free-range units,
however the required standards relating to environment and husbandry,
together with fire and other emergency safety precautions, amount to a strong
case for on-site residence. The DEFRA requirements would make it difficult
for someone living elsewhere in the area, with no direct visible or audible
contact with what is happening on site, to meet the Welfare Code.
Continued . . .
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