Controversy over planned mayo poultry house

PLANS for a large scale poultry operation in a rural location near Ballyhaunis has ruffled feathers in the local community.

The proposed site for the large poultry house – which would have accommodation space for 38,000 broiler chickens – is the townland of Woodpark one mile distant from the east Mayo town.

Included in the proposal are plans for a feeder silo.

Mayo County Council has yet to consider the planning application. It has requested further information from the applicant, Cathal O'Reilly.

Since the planning application was lodged there have been a number of objections from locals including residents in the Pattens Park area.

Access to the proposed project will be via a narrow road from the N63 to Woodpark.

Amongst the concerns raised by residents is road safety/unsuitability, odours, noise, and the potential structural damage to houses caused by heavy traffic.

Adjoining farmers say they are concerned that “the applicant intends to spread waste material – chicken faeces – on his land by the most economical methods regardless of local farming interests or good farming practices”.

The proposed development, on a greenfield site in a rural location, would have “adverse effects” on the surrounding population and environment, it is also claimed.

Amongst the objectors are a group of keep fit enthusiasts, BallyhauniwsFit4Life who use the Woodpark road for running purposes and say they would like to see the route kept free of excess or heavy traffic.

The Mayo Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which has an animal sanctuary at Pattens Park have also expressed concerns to the planning authority about the project on the grounds it would create extra traffic.