LINDFORD parish councillors are unanimously opposed to an application to import and dispose of pet carcasses using existing farm incinerators at a poultry farm in Lindford. The applicant, Headley Farms Estate, has submitted an application to Hampshire County Council to import and dispose of pet carcasses at Broxhead Farm, which lies in the parish of Headley. A letter to Hampshire County Council from Lindford Parish Council said: "The council felt that answers need to be provided for the following: Who can use the facilities? How are carcasses stored on arrival if incineration is not carried out immediately? Why is the smoke stack the height it is? Would a higher smoke stack not disperse the smoke more widely? How will large carcasses (eg farm animals) be transported to the site? How many vehicles will it realistically take to transport 5 tons of carcasses a week? "Great concern was expressed about the upper limits of capacity for the incinerators. It was obvious to everyone who attended the meeting that, although the intention is to start with five tons capacity a week, because the facilities are being built with a much higher capacity, this lower limit will soon be breached. It is hardly honest to give the impression that a lower capacity will be generally generated, while also pointing out that there are only two pet crematoriums in Hampshire, and using that argument as justification for allowing the application to go through. "Added to the inevitable increase in capacity is the concern over the un-made up access road. This is clearly a planning issue and needs to be addressed." The letter continued: "Concern was also expressed over the absence of an environmental report. As well as general environmental issues, more specific ones include: What are the safeguards involved in handling and incinerating any sick or diseased animal?" The parish council also had worries about the smell of the development, the emissions from the smoke stack and any leakage of waste materials going into the river. The letter concluded: "Another issue that needs to be addressed is the effect on neighbours, especially Lindford Sports Association which has its facilities very close to this development. The operating times of 7 am until 6 pm hours six days a week, would directly impinge upon the enjoyment of cricketers, footballers and spectators using the grounds of Lindford Sports Association. "Added to this is the concern that users of the Sports Association may feel distress at seeing van loads of carcasses being transported to the site." The application will be decided by a regulatory committee at Hampshire County Council.
