January 8, 2020 2.49 pm This story is over 58 months old

Council delays decision on 270k bird ‘chicken prison’ near Grantham

A decision will be made next month

South Kesteven councillors delayed making a decision on a 270,000 bird poultry farm near Grantham.

The plan submitted by ADAS UK on behalf of Stewart Adams would see a six-shed farm built at High Dike in Great Ponton.

Animal rights campaigners had dubbed the plan a “chicken prison” and called on the council to refuse the development.

Council officers recommended the proposal be approved, but councillors today decided to defer a decision until next month’s meeting and are minded to reject the plan.

Site layout plans for the chicken farm.

Campaigners from PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) previously described the plan as “cruel”.

A 25,000 signature petition was submitted by the animal rights group opposing the plan and residents also raised concern.

However, Kenny Dhillon, the agent for applicant Steward Adams, urged people to engage with the developers, read the submitted information and “learn all the facts”.

Councillors will discuss the plan again at a planning committee meeting in February.

SUBSCRIBE TO LOCAL DEMOCRACY WEEKLY, our exclusive email newsletter with highlights from our coverage every week and insights and analysis from our local democracy reporters.