Petition against broiler unit signed by 21,000

More than 21,000 people have signed a petition objecting to plans for a broiler unit for up to 200,000 birds on the Shropshire/Wolverhampton border.

Guy Sankey submitted an application for a scoping opinion - a request to Shropshire Council for its opinion on details needed in an environmental impact assessment - for his farm in Whiston Cross, off the A464 near Albrighton.

The petition was organised by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), and urged the authority to reject the plan - saying it would "spare millions of birds a lifetime of suffering and a terrifying death."

A spokesperson on behalf of Sankey said the proposed development would reduce reliance on imported meat.

It also said it would contribute to national objectives for greater self-sufficiency in poultry production and would support a more sustainable, secure food system.

Application documents said the proposed buildings would measure 140m by 20m, and the site had been chosen due to its distance from neighbouring properties.

Peta senior campaigns manager Kate Werner said: "Thousands of compassionate people have spoken, and Shropshire Council must heed the concerns of its constituents and the general public over animal suffering, the environment, and the health of the community."

The proposal also received 27 objections, including from Albrighton and Donington Parish Council, which said the site was too close to Albrighton, resulting in residents having to contend with "hours of uncomfortable smells".

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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