Heifer housing plan approved at major dairy farm
© Tim Scrivener Plans for new heifer accommodation at one of Pembrokeshire’s largest dairy farms have been approved, allowing the 2,000-cow operation to help consolidate stock on one site.
A planning application by Hugh James of Langdon Mill Farms sought permission for a 160m heifer housing building, a slurry separation and dewatering structure, and new yard areas at the 1,215ha Langdon Mill Farm near Jeffreyston, Kilgetty.
The proposal was recommended for approval at Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee.
See also: Advice on dairy buildings designed for weather extremes
Planning officer Claire Jenkins outlined considerations, including the development’s effect on the character of the area, its landscape impact, and potential consequences for biodiversity and protected species.
The scheme underwent a habitats regulation assessment.
She stated that the proposed buildings would be at a lower level and screened by vegetation and other agricultural structures, reducing their visibility.
Mr James said the new building would allow the farm to retain animals presently sent to outlying holdings.
“These animals are already with us on the farm, but after they are reared, this shed is the next stage on,” he said.
“At the moment, those animals are going out to outlying farms, and the landlords there want the sheds back for development and storage, so there would be improved welfare of the animals by keeping them on one site.
“We hope that by keeping them on one site, we could clear ourselves out of TB issues.”
Approval was proposed by councillor Brian Hall and seconded by Danny Young.
Councillor John T Davies also offered support, saying: “It’s common sense; the fact we approved a calf-rearing shed, it follows on, therefore you need a heifer-rearing shed.”
He added: “Whatever you think of large-scale dairy farming, as a dairy farmer myself, with the collapse of pricing, this is about safety in numbers. I have no hesitation in supporting this.”
Committee chairman Mark Carter said it was “a pleasure to be supporting the farming industry”.