Opposition to proposals for poultry unit near beauty spot

PEOPLE living close to a well-known beauty spot near Carrickmore fear that the unspoiled landscape could be seriously impacted if planning approval is granted for the housing of 32,000 free range chickens in the area.

Local man, Mark McCrory, is seeking permission for the construction of a poultry shed capable of catering for the birds on the Bernisk Road.

His application states that the land earmarked for the development allows the unit to be at suitable distances from third party dwellings.

But his application is causing grave concerns for families living close to the site. They are fearing the environmental and health impact and the close proximity of the proposal to their homes.

They have also lodged objections to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

Speaking to the UH, Dominic McCartan, said that the green light for the construction of the shed could have disastrous consequences for the ecology of Bernisk Glen, and on his family’s health.

“Bernisk Glen has, for generations, been a popular spot for walking for local people. But if this goes ahead, the whole landscape will be dangerously altered,” he said.

“This application is very serious for us living within just over 100 metres from the proposed site. It must be recognised that this may cause a negative impact on the use and enjoyment of our homes and mean that we are no longer able to open windows or sit outside due to the smell.”

John McCartan, whose home is also close to the proposed site, said he was particularly concerned about the odours which may come from the facility.

“We also fear that the odour may be more intense during particular times, such as cleaning out during periods of warmer weather.

“Based on the information provided by the applicant so far, it’s difficult to demonstrate that there would be no detrimental impact of odour, dust or noise on neighbouring home,” he said.

“There are also concerns that a new poultry unit will lead to an increase in vermin and flies in the area, and a potential rise in the number of cases of avian flu.”

The families are also worried about additional lorries travelling to the site, which is located along the single-track Bernisk Road, and that low frequency noise will disrupt their sleep.

However, in documents associated with the application, the applicant says that he currently owns and operates two free- range poultry sheds housing 23,400 birds.

“The land on which the application is based is around 400 metres from his current facilities.

“This site is suitable for the development as it can easily accommodate the shed, and the applicant has access to the surrounding land for use as the required range area for the proposed birds.

“This land allows the poultry unit to be sited at suitable disturbances from third party dwellings and sites to ensure that there is no issue from odour or ammonia, etc.”