Methwold and Feltwell councils officially object to Cranswick megafarm plans

Villagers have voted to roundly oppose the prospect of one of the biggest industrial livestock farming sites in the UK being built on their doorstep.

Methwold and Feltwell Parish Councils have both submitted statements objecting to Cranswick’s plans to create the site, which would house 714,000 chickens and 14,000 pigs.

At two packed recent public meetings, members listened to concerns from worried residents, including worries over a potential increase in traffic and air pollution.

Members of the public now have until January 24 to have their say on the proposals, after the consultation period was extended following a council mix-up.

Cranswick had been invited to attend the meetings but declined to visit in person, worrying the event could be “hijacked by activists”, instead offering to meet virtually.

The plans have faced intense backlash from animal rights groups, nature charities and even Quorn, the vegetarian food giant, which has warned it may have to close its site in Methwold if plans are approved.

The proposed site has previously been used for pig farming, but the plans represent a major expansion to create an area which will be around one-third the size of London’s O2 Arena.

Cranswick says it will be a “sustainable, modern farm” that will help to deliver affordable produce, create jobs and boost the local economy.

Since the application was first lodged two years ago, there have been about 15,000 letters of objection submitted to the borough council.