Proposal would store more than six months of slurry; neighbours raise odour and road safety concerns
The owners of Acland Farm have submitted a planning application to build a large slurry store near Blackwater, outside Truro, that would be able to hold more than six months’ worth of animal waste and yard run‑off. The proposal has provoked a wave of objections from local residents, business owners and the head of a nearby school, who cite potential odours, increased heavy agricultural traffic and pollution risks.
According to the planning statement, the proposed structure would be an underground, artificially lined earth bank store with a floating cover, designed to comply with SSAFO regulations. The application says the store would provide the farm with capacity to remain compliant in the future, particularly in light of wetter winters associated with climate change.
"The earth bank store will ensure the farm has capacity to contain six months’ plus worth of slurry and dirty water yard run‑off...and will ensure it has capacity to remain compliant in the future,"
Concerns from the community
At a parish meeting, locals raised several specific worries. The principal issues cited in objections include:
- Potential for strong and persistent odours affecting homes, businesses and the nearby school
- A significant increase in heavy agricultural vehicle movements along a single‑track lane and across a bridleway, particularly Old Kea Downs road
- Possible risk of pollution to surrounding land or watercourses
Acland Farm Partnership, which operates a specialist dairy business across about 405 hectares, says its current roofed slurry tank provides limited storage. The application argues the proposed store is the most economical and least visually intrusive option, and that odour will be controlled using the "best practical means."
What the store would contain
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 17,508 cubic metres |
| Purpose | Contain more than six months’ worth of slurry and yard run‑off |
| Design | Underground, lined structure with floating cover; compliant with SSAFO |
Next steps and local implications
The application will be considered through the normal planning process. If approved, the store would alter how slurry and dirty water are managed on one of the area’s larger dairy operations. For residents, the decision will determine whether the concerns about odour, traffic and pollution are addressed to the satisfaction of the parish and planning authority.
For anyone wishing to follow the application or view related planning notices, the Public Notice Portal lists applications, traffic diversions and other local planning information.
