Plans for the construction of new abattoir in Scotland by beef processor Pickstock is set to provide up to 60 new jobs and reduce travelling times for livestock.
In a positive light the local planning authority, Dumfries and Galloway Council, also deemed an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was unnecessary, subject to a number of mitigation measures being implemented. This was despite objections from local residents to the plan.
A spokesperson for the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS), of which Pickstock is a member, said: “Having read Planning Application, 24/1988/FUL and the various objections I am of the view that not only will this new abattoir provide valuable investment in the rural economy it will also deliver huge animal welfare benefits in terms of reduced journey times.
“The application includes the installation of photo voltaic panels and an anaerobic digestor both of which will provide significant amounts of green energy to the site.
“I am in no doubt that Dumfries and Galloway’s Planning Department are aware of the need to be mindful of environmental impacts, but from what I have read of the proposed development I believe that their view that an EIA is unnecessary is the correct decision.
“As an aside and having read the objections from local residents, I note that one included the line, ‘By its nature is a target for activist groups even more so due to its size’. I suggest that rather than being concerned about the potential for disruption and possible illegality from activists, that the residents should see themselves as being good neighbours to this large local employer and alert them as to any suspicious activity that might take place in the local area.”
