Prees chicken unit plan revealed

Plans were unveiled today for a broiler unit housing up to 85,000 chickens at a farm which is expanding in Prees.

Alan Simpson Farming Limited has applied for planning permission to build the new poultry unit on Lower Heath Farm, in Darliston.

A report to Shropshire Council says: "The need for this additional building arises from the continuing success of the business in supplying birds to a firm of national food retailers, the demand for which is still increasing. A high standard of accommodation is also required for the birds."

Agents, Christal Planning Services Limited, based in Cheswardine, said: "The new building will be located on the eastern side of the existing business and therefore at the furthest distance from the public highway."

No extra jobs are expected to be created. Residents have until May 29 to comment on the proposals.

In nearby Moreton Say, the parish council has objected to plans for a poultry scheme three times the size.

The proposals are for six poultry units at Vantage Farm in Bletchley, housing more than 300,000 chickens.