Abattoir could be key to organic growth (From Western Telegraph)

Abattoir could be key to organic growth

Pembrokeshire's proposed new abattoir could play a key role in developing the area's organic sector.

According to forecasts, the slaughterhouse would expand organic agriculture by increasing production at existing and new businesses. This, argues its supporters, is vital in an area where organic slaughter facilities are more remote than conventional ones.

A recent Soil Association report indicates that organic food sales are rising faster in Britain than in any other European country.

But the study claims British farmers are missing out because supermarkets dominating this sector import three quarters of their organic produce.

The abattoir, which is proposed for the Withybush Park Industrial Estate, Haverfordwest, would have slaughter facilities for both organic and conventional livestock.

It would generate its income from the estimated 8,500 cattle, sheep and pigs which would be slaughtered there annually.

Pembrokeshire County Council has granted it planning permission provided its developers, the Pembrokeshire Meat Company, can meet conditions relating to several issues including landscaping and delivery hours.

There are concerns about its location but a potential developer at this site, the Pembrokeshire Business Initiative, is confident these can be addressed with adequate screening.

PBI director Richard Packman says the needs of existing businesses and future developers must be taken into account.

"We wholly support this plan, we were responsible for writing its business plan, but its juxtaposition in relation to other businesses needs to be thought through very carefully,'' he says.

"These issues can be resolved. The abattoir project is an important one and must be supported.''

A core group of the abattoir's directors and investors has submitted an application to the Welsh Development Agency and the Welsh Assembly for support funding from the Objective One Agri-Food Partnership.

Investors are still being sought and can contact Mr John Davies on 01646 694305 for further information.