Plans for 1,000 pig farm in Doncaster village prompts mass objections

Plans for a swine-rearing farm in a Doncaster village with more 1,000 pigs has prompted mass objections from nearby residents.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

An application has been submitted to house the operation at Toecroft Farm, in Sprotborough and planners could make a decision in the coming months.

The number of objections will likely result in the application to come before councillors in a planning committee meeting.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The proposal, submitted by applicant listed only as Mr Birkin, includes the erection of pig finishing building to accommodate 996 pigs and associated infrastructure.

Objections have been lodged to plans for a pig farmObjections have been lodged to plans for a pig farm
Objections have been lodged to plans for a pig farm

The applicants, F E Lodge & Sons, operate an existing mixed arable and livestock farming business. The livestock enterprise extends to 140 cattle for beef.

Planning documents show the reason for the scheme is around the ‘uncertainty surrounding the future of the single farm payment’ and all subsidised farming activities with the ‘need to diversify to a more sustainable and self-sufficient operation’.

But the scheme has attracted a number of objections from nearby residents.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Daniel Kirk said: “The amount of noise and smell of almost 1,000 pigs kept in close proximity to each other would make it in my opinion not suitable for the proposed position being so close to private residences.

The decision is set to go before Doncaster Council's planning committeeThe decision is set to go before Doncaster Council's planning committee
The decision is set to go before Doncaster Council's planning committee

“I know from living 0.3 mile away from the farm, I can already hear cattle occasionally which isn’t a problem but that’s not 1,000 pigs in a shed.

“Again, the flies and rodents that such a big development would bring isn’t suitable for its location.”

Carol Rees, another nearby resident, gave reasons for noise, HGV traffic and vermin infestation in the objection.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

She said: “ I can’t think of a single solitary thing in its favour despite reading all the ‘expert’ reports and I am not reassured by the reports that all will be as they say.

“This planning application, if passed, will impact terribly on residents both young and old. Its nearness to a large residential estate must surely bring into question its suitability.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

Related topics: