Norfolk Council Rejects Cranswick Megafarm Plans Over Environmental Concerns

Councillors in King's Lynn and West Norfolk unanimously rejected a planning application for a proposed megafarm in Methwold that aimed to house over 870,000 chickens and 14,000 pigs, citing significant environmental concerns. The decision followed a robust public response, with more than 15,000 objections and a petition signed by 42,000 individuals against the project, which was criticized for its potential greenhouse gas emissions and proximity to protected sites. Cranswick, the food producer behind the proposal, expressed disappointment, claiming the decision undermines sustainable meat production in the UK. Environmental groups, including WWF and Sustain, hailed the outcome as a victory for local communities and biodiversity, emphasizing the need for sustainable farming practices. Local MP Terry Jermy praised the council's decision as a win for the environment, highlighting its importance in protecting local jobs and ecosystems. The council's planning officers had recommended rejection due to insufficient data on environmental impacts, reinforcing the community's and experts' concerns about the project's sustainability.