Fears of smell, noise and HGVs over plans for pig unit near Dalton

A SLEW of objections has met a bid to build two pig fattening sheds on farmland.

No fewer than 27 residents have hit out at plans for two buildings off Low Lane, in Dalton, to finish off up to 1,920 pigs.

James Milbank, of J Milbank and Son Farms Ltd, submitted amended proposals on the family’s 226-acre farm last month which would allow him to “improve the farm’s production and profitability”.

But villagers fear narrow roads near Gayles Fields Farm will be unable to handle the articulated wagons used to ferry pigs and their feed.

Noise and odours emanating from the would-be sheds were also sources of concern.

Stephen McDonnell, from Gayles, believed the larger vehicles would cause “untold damage” to the roads. In a letter to planners, he said: “The HGVs are far too big to go down the small lanes. There are no passing places along the route, if you are not a very competent car driver then you will not be able to reverse the long distance required.

“As many people will be elderly, this is an accident waiting to happen. Cyclists, walkers, horse riders and pedestrians will be in danger.”

Newsham’s Valerie McLean was just as unhappy – telling planners at Richmondshire District Council she would be forced to reverse hundreds of yards due to the HGVs.

She added: “The road is only single track, the verges have ruts in them, and the road surface is never maintained, and to my mind this road is totally impractical for heavy vehicle use.”

More than 40 people attended Dalton Parish Meeting earlier this year to discuss the plans alongside Mr Milbank.

And a tense meeting between the applicant, residents and Richmondshire district councillor William Heslop earlier this month at Dalton and Gayles Village Hall saw more questions answered.

Documents on behalf of the applicant said the building would fit their surroundings.

The design statement added: “This proposed new, state-of-the-art finishing building is of a sympathetic, understated design, in keeping with traditional agricultural buildings.

“The transport movements to and from the site will not be significant and deliveries will be grouped together wherever possible.”

Slurry generated from the new plant would be used elsewhere on the farm as fertiliser if plans are approved.

Comments on the application can be sent to Richmondshire District Council until Friday, July 21.