Welshpool farmer in 'super dairy' plan

A Mid Wales farmer is making a fresh bid for a controversial "super dairy" in the region after objections from the Environment Agency and residents.

Fraser Jones, of Leighton, near Welshpool, plans to build one of the first parlours of its type in Wales for a herd of 1,000 cattle.

The Environment Agency was concerned about the risks to groundwater and how manure would be managed.

Mr Jones said those concerns had been addressed and he would plant more trees and extend an anti-noise wall.

The project was unveiled in August last year, and Mr Jones held a public meeting in Leighton, where the dairy is planned. But following concerns from the Environment Agency the original plans were withdrawn.

Powys County Council said it had also received a "high number" of objections from local people. The National Trust also complained that the dairy could spoil the view from Powis Castle, which is located nearby.

Mr Jones confirmed he had submitted new plans and that he had made alterations over manure. A new consultation process has started and the new plans will be on display at Roger Parry chartered surveyors, in Welshpool on Thursday from 2pm to 6pm.