Pembrokeshire Farm Development Approved with Cattle Underpass

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park development management committee has approved extensive developments at Stackpole Quay Farm, including the construction of a cattle underpass. The application by Christopher James, through agent Cynllunio RW Planning Ltd, seeks to enhance Longhouse Farm with a new milking parlour, collecting yard, feed pad, and silage clamp.

The development is part of a system aimed at establishing a spring calving herd of 360 dairy cows and 90 followers, emphasizing a low input-low output operation primarily using grass to produce high-quality milk. A dirty water lagoon is planned to manage slurry and effluent efficiently.

The new cattle underpass, now approved under delegated powers, will include an associated farm track and ecological enhancements, linking parts of the farm divided by the C3017 road. This initiative aims to alleviate local traffic delays, particularly in summer, by reducing the need for cattle to cross the road and managing slurry during passage.

Christopher James, farming at Stackpole for decades, assures that while the proposal increases farm efficiency, it does not intend to grow the herd's size. Mathry Community Council supports the underpass, favoring improved traffic flow and environmental practices.