Pembrokeshire Dairy Farm Development Approved Amid Objections

Plans to develop a Pembrokeshire farm for dairy use by new owners have been approved despite it being one of the largest on the northern coastal land of the county.

The proposal, put forward by Christopher James of Stackpole Quay Farm through Cynllunio RW Planning Ltd, includes the development of a milking parlour, collecting yard, feed pad, silage clamp, and dirty water lagoon at Longhouse Farm, Abercastle Road, Trefin.

The project aims to establish a spring calving herd of 360 dairy cows plus 90 followers, using a low input system focusing on grass-based feeding to produce quality milk. The plan includes necessary components like a milking parlour and silage clamp with a dirty water lagoon for slurry and effluent management.

While objections arose, highlighting the "significant intensification" of farming and potential environmental impacts, officials clarified that no planning permission is required to shift from sheep/arable farming to dairy. However, any future expansions would need separate approvals.

Local objector Paul Nevinsky raised concerns about the size, describing the slurry lagoon as "three times the size of an Olympic swimming pool." Meanwhile, Mr. James promised increased biodiversity and reassured no herd size increase intentions.

Ultimately, the development was conditionally approved by the committee with a majority vote.