Leighton ‘super dairy’ inquiry begins

A public inquiry into plans to expand a dairy farm in Leighton that could house 1,000 cows got underway in Welshpool today, and is expected to last up to eight days.

There’s been fierce opposition to the plans for Lower Leighton Farm to expand, with campaigners claiming that the ‘super dairy’ poses a health risk and environment problems. Welshpool Town Council opposes the plans as have the National Trust who said it creates an eye sore for views from Powis Castle.

However, farmer Fraser Jones says he has addressed those concerns by modifying his plans which he says will rescue a struggling dairy industry. The plans were initially approved by Powys County Council before the Welsh Government called them in last year and announced a public inquiry. Powys has since changed its mind and also rejected the plans.

The proposed extension at Lower Leighton Farm near Welshpool would also include a three-storey parlour, three livestock cubicle buildings, two slurry stores and a water storage tower.