Pembrokeshire Dairy Farm Secures Retrospective Approval for Developments

Pembrokeshire County Council has approved a retrospective planning application submitted by Bill Ridge of Vaynor Farm Ltd for developments at Talybont Farm, Llawhaden. The application sought permission for a newly constructed agricultural building designed to house dairy replacement heifers and the retention of a slurry lagoon. These developments are part of a 645-acre farm operation, which supports a 700-strong dairy herd.

The application followed a notification from the local planning enforcement department, which highlighted that the recently erected building required planning consent and that the lagoon did not align with the previously approved 2022 plans. The development includes a 22.72 by 13.33-meter building and a lagoon providing a significant 4,500 square meters of slurry storage. Combined with existing facilities, the farm now offers over 170 days' storage capacity.

The agent representing Vaynor Farm Ltd, Cynllunio RW Planning Ltd, stated that the development is essential for agricultural purposes and does not aim to increase the farm's stocking rate. An officer report endorsed the approval, mentioning improvements to the proposed green infrastructure and confirming that the project does not intend to expand herd numbers.

The council's approval is conditional, ensuring the development aligns with agricultural needs without altering the farm's operational scale. The decision underscores the importance of adhering to planning regulations while supporting necessary agricultural infrastructure.