Permission granted for 200,000 chicken unit near Welshpool

An application by Ystym Colwyn Farms in Meifod was discussed by Powys County Council's planning committee in September.

However members voted to defer the application in order to request the submission of a landscaping plan.

At a meeting last week, the application was re-looked at and was given the green light.

Consent was being sought for building four broiler units to house 200,000 more birds in four units, with 50,000 birds kept in each unit.

Agents on behalf of Ystym Colwyn Farms, Roger Parry and Partners, said in a statement that the farm is diversifying the enterprise away from the traditional sheep flocks and cattle herds.

They said this was down to the volatile nature of red meat prices.

The design and access statement published said: "The farm business has made the decision to diversify further into a poultry enterprise and the applicant wishes to enhance the business to create a sustainable future for themselves and their young family.

"Hence the business has to diversify to create and sustain jobs.

"The council wishes to sustain an efficient and viable farming economy and is aware of the need for continuing investment in modern farm building."

It was given the green light by planners, who said: "Having considered all statutory consultee responses, due consideration has been given to the proposed development and its potential impact upon the amenity and character of the area in this locality.

"It is considered that the proposed development complies with the relevant policies within the Powys County Council Local Development Plan. The recommendation is one of conditional consent."

Councillors then gave the application the all clear.