Plans for huge pig farm scrapped

The Earl of Devon's Powderham Estate has scrapped plans for a pig farm  in east Devon.

It had been proposed that the farm would accommodate up to with up to 8,000 animals on land beside the Exe Estuary owned by JMW Farms and the estate.

Concerns had been raised by local residents who set up a website called Stop Powderham Estate Pig Factory.

They were concerned over a number of issues including noise and smell.

The estate said it "valued its relationship with the local community and the views of parish councils and residents were taken into account when arriving at this decision".

Previously, The National Pig Association said any investment in the industry was welcomed and all farms have to stick to strict limits on noise and odours.

Zoe Davies, from the association, said: "We already import 60% of the pork eaten in the UK. I am struggling to keep the remaining 40% in business.

"We need re-investment, people operating in latest technology buildings and we need people to be profitable."