Kington Town Council bids to veto polytunnels (From Hereford Times)

Kington Town Council bids to veto polytunnels

8:30am Wednesday 6th February 2013 in News

A TOWN council has drawn up a letter citing 17 reasons why a controversial polytunnel idea should be turned down.

Kington Town Council says a plan for 11 hectares of polytunnels across four fields at Lower Hengoed Farm in Huntington will have an adverse effect on the landscape and local economy.

The council also has concerns over the scheme’s impact on the nearby River Arrow.

Applicant Richard Hammond wants to cover cherry orchards with the polytunnels for up to six months a year to “ensure the long-term economic and environmental health of the farm”.

The diversification plan follows a survey which concluded the farm is currently making little, if any, profit.

The idea has prompted nearly 80 objection letters.

According to planning documents, Mr Hammond’s project would be a collaborative one with Ledbury-based soft fruit business Haygrove.

Part of the polytunnels may be visible from the popular Offa’s Dyke path nearby.

Among the town council’s concerns was the potential impact on tourist income in the area.

Mr Hammond says the four fields are the maximum area he would use, adding that he has teamed up with Haygrove because of the firm’s expertise.