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AG5  Criteria for Agricultural Nuisances  Policy

In determining proposals for new agricultural livestock units, facilities for the storage of slurry or sewage sludge, or for animal waste processing, the Local Planning Authority will have to be satisfied that the potential for nuisance to residents or other users of non-agricultural land and property nearby can be brought within acceptable limits before permission is granted.

Favourable consideration will be given to proposals that are required to comply with improved environmental standards.

Reasoned justification :

12.19 Agricultural livestock units and related agricultural facilities do not normally require planning consent unless they are to be located within 400 metres of a "protected building". This reflects their potential to cause nuisance, especially with regard to noise and odour. Policy AG5, therefore, sets out the criteria that the Local Planning Authority will apply in considering such proposals.

12.20 Agricultural facilities of this nature can be particularly unacceptable near residential areas, schools or other similar non-agricultural premises where people are normally present for long periods during the day or night. Policy AG5, therefore, restricts them unless appropriate measures to minimise the potential for nuisance can be secured. To be acceptable, however, these measures must bring the likelihood of nuisance to levels which are compatible with the nature and sensitivity of the surrounding area. Such controls will normally be the subject of planning conditions, or where necessary legal agreement, regulating the design or future operation of the site.