Anger over plans to demolish independent Oldham abattoir for housing
Plans to demolish a leading independent abattoir in the north of England have been met with resistance in the farming community.
Owners of the site of Cowlishaw Abattoir in Royton, Oldham, which also includes several acres of agricultural land, have offered the plot to local planners for a new housing estate of up to 250 homes.
The abattoir, which also acts as a fellmonger and wholesale meat trader, serves livestock transporters from all over the north of the country.
Now fears are growing about how the slaughter demand will be met if the abattoir is abolished.
NFU chief livestock adviser John Royle said: “The loss of any abattoir is a concern as they play a vital role in supporting, developing and maintaining rural infrastructure, and supporting jobs.
“We must maintain competition in the processing sector to help secure fair returns for the livestock produced.
“All farmers want their livestock to be processed quickly and efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and welfare, and we would urge the current operators to consider building a new facility so they can continue to provide a valuable service for local farmers and the community.”
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