Agenda item

To consider an application for the Erection of a manure storage building for use in connection with existing poultry unit, formation of a new vehicular access to serve the building and associated works (copy attached).

An application was submitted for the erection of a manure storage building for use in connection with existing poultry unit, formation of a new vehicular access to serve the building and associated works at Tyn Y Celyn, Clocaenog, Ruthin.

Public Speakers –

Bill Seymour (Against) – Informed members that there were multiple outstanding objections to the proposed development. There was a manure shed which was already being used, it was stated that cumulative impact assessment had not been carried out. The odour test was office based and did not realise the full impact of the odour, as on some occasions the smell was unbearable for the surrounding residents. The road which was used to transport the manure was highlighted as not being fit for purpose, the committee were also informed that an alternative entrance was being used for the site which had not been approved.

Catrin Jones (For) – made the committee aware that the proposed development was to conform to Welsh Government regulations which would be coming into effect. The new shed would allow the manure to be stored under a roof and in dry conditions, the shed would be located closer to the farm which would be beneficial to the farm as a local business. The current shed was being rented, the new proposed storage would allow further control for the farm over the storage of manure. The proposed storage shed would also be located further from residents than the shed which was being currently used.

General Debate –

Concerns were raised following the site visit, in regards to the road which was used by HGVs to transport the manure, as it was a narrow rural lane and the vehicles caused damage to the road. It was also highlighted that there were no trees planted at the bottom of the lane which was agreed as a condition in a previous application.

Councillor Eryl Williams (Local Member) informed the committee the matter was divisive in the local community. Confirmation of the store was sought, along with what the farm produced. It was agreed that the road which was currently being used was not ideal. It was reiterated that the shed was proposed to conform to Welsh Government legislation which was being implemented, which required manure to be stored in a roofed shed.

Officers responded to members concerns.  It was clarified that the amount which was going to be stored was 5 months of manure. The exact capacity was not known. The proposed building had been moved further from residents to lessen the impact. The dust from the activities would have little to no impact on the surrounding residents. The odour was also assessed to have no adverse impact on residents. Members were assured that compliance with conditions imposed on previous applications would be investigated.

The road which was being used by HGV’s was narrow, but no restrictions were in place on the roads and drivers were within their rights to use the road. The usage was also deemed as being light as it would be used roughly 3 to 4 times a week.

Proposal – Councillor Ann Davies proposed the application be refused due to the adverse impact on local amenities, seconded by Councillor Andrew Thomas.

Proposal – Councillor Alan James proposed the application be granted in accordance with officer recommendations seconded by Councillor Merfyn Parry.

Councillor Eryl Williams suggested that a condition be included to ensure the use of the building was limited to storage of manure from the applicant’s poultry unit.  Councillor Alan James agreed the condition be included in the proposal.

VOTE:

GRANT – 13

REFUSE – 4

ABSTAIN – 0

RESOLVED that permission be GRANTED in accordance with officer recommendations as detailed within the report and supplementary papers.