August 6, 2010

Nocton prepares to resubmit 'super dairy' plan

Representatives of Nocton Dairies are expected to resubmit plans to establish an 8,100-cow "super dairy" in Lincolnshire.

The representatives are due to meet local villagers on Friday (Aug 6). Three farmers involved in the GBP40-million project withdrew their original planning application earlier this year.

Having addressed environmental issues, the plan is now likely to be resubmitted to North Kesteven District Council. The "super dairy" would be built on land between Dunston and Nocton, about six miles south of Lincoln.

If approved, the farm will be home to more than 8,100 cows, producing up to 250,000 litres of milk daily and employing 85 staff. It would have access to 8,500 hectares (21,000 acres) for forage production and manure spreading.

However, detractors highlight fears about animal welfare and the impact on the environment.