Poultry Industry Demand is Growing – Is Your Land Suitable?
The UK poultry industry continues to grow despite ongoing challenges. Producers are finding new ways to boost efficiency, embrace renewable energy, and stay sustainable. That means demand for suitable poultry development sites is rising – and we have clients actively looking to invest in poultry development sites.
If you have a site or plot of land that’s currently underutilised, now is the perfect time to assess its potential.
What are our clients looking for and how may it work?
Landowners have several flexible options to unlock the value of underutilised land for poultry development. These include an outright land sale for those seeking a clean exit and immediate capital, a long-term lease or rental agreement offering steady income while retaining ownership, or a joint venture/partnership, where landowners contribute the site and share in profits alongside experienced poultry operators. Each model offers different levels of involvement and return, allowing landowners to choose what best suits their goals and risk appetite.
What Kind of Land is Suitable?
While few sites are ever perfect, there are some important characteristics that make land more viable for poultry development:
- Good access to transport routes is essential—especially for feed deliveries, bird collections, and staff access.
- A history of agricultural or poultry use is often advantageous and usually makes it easier to gain planning approval.
- Flat or gently sloping topography simplifies construction and reduces drainage issues.
- Separation from residential areas helps minimise planning objections related to noise and odour.
- Access to services such as water, electricity, and possibly three-phase power is key.
- Well-drained soils are preferred for construction and environmental management.
How Much Land is Needed?
The amount of land required varies depending on the scale of the enterprise, but as a guide:
- A typical broiler or laying unit may need 2–3 acres for buildings, access roads, parking, and environmental buffers.
- Larger or multi-shed operations may require 5–10 acres or more.
- Additional space may be needed for manure management, landscaping, or biodiversity net gain requirements.
Gaining Planning Permission: Key Considerations
Securing planning permission for poultry developments is increasingly complex, but with the right preparation, it can be done successfully. Here are some key tips:
Pick the Right Site – You can’t change fixed characteristics like road access or nearby properties. Sites with a history of poultry use or existing agricultural infrastructure are often more straightforward.
Know Your Site – Identify any weaknesses early such as access, flood risk, or proximity to dwellings—and address them either pre-application or during the planning process.
Be Prepared for Supporting Documents – Poultry applications may require:
- Ecology surveys
- Air quality and ammonia assessments
- Landscape and visual impact assessments
- Traffic and access studies
- Larger developments (over 85,000 broilers or 60,000 laying hens) will usually require a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), but smaller sites may also need one depending on location and cumulative impact.
Deal With Environmental Issues Early – Odour, ammonia emissions, and traffic are among the most common concerns. These should be thoroughly assessed and addressed from the outset.
Take Expert Advice – Engaging the right professionals early such as planning consultants, environmental specialists, and transport engineers, can save both time and cost. Tailored, site-specific reports are usually more effective (and more affordable) than generic assessments.
If you’re a landowner with a site that might be suitable or you’re just unsure and want guidance, speak to Acorus for help. We can carry out an initial appraisal and advise on the planning potential for poultry development on your land.
Get in touch today to explore the opportunities.