A proposed megafarm that intended to raise almost a million chickens and pigs simultaneously was opposed by the council of Norfolk due to concerns over climate change and the environment. Several objections were raised, including from local campaign groups, NGOs like the RSPB and WWF, a new Labour MP, and five parish councils.

The WWF estimated that the farm could produce nearly 90,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and more than one million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over its 20-year lifespan. Though the company, Cranswick, argued for modernisation to meet growing market demands and enhance British food production to higher welfare standards, the council recommended rejecting the application due to ecological and climate change concerns. There were also concerns about air and water pollution, including fears of exceeding the permitted water abstraction license.

While Cranswick claims that the farm was intended to meet local demand for meat and increase job opportunities, critics worry about the potential for exports and the impact on nearby farms and businesses, such as Quorn. Despite these arguments from the company, the council ultimately decided to block the proposal.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/03/plan-for-norfolk-megafarm-rejected-by-councillors-over-environmental-concerns