Victoria
Proposed Automated Feedlot in South East Victoria Faces Local Backlash
A Victorian farmer's plan to build an undercover, automated feedlot has sparked local concern over potential odour and road safety issues.
A proposal to establish one of Victoria's first undercover, automated feedlots has met with strong opposition from community members in the state's south-east.
According to a wire report, a Victorian farmer has submitted the development application to establish the high-tech facility, which would represent a significant shift in regional farming methods. While the developer intends to introduce automated agricultural practices, the plans have quickly drawn criticism from residents living near the proposed site.
Local opposition to the project centres on two primary areas of concern, namely road safety and the potential for offensive odours. Residents argue that the increased heavy vehicle traffic required to service the feedlot could pose risks to existing road users on local thoroughfares.
Additionally, community members are worried about how the odour from the undercover facility will be managed, particularly during warmer weather, and whether it will impact the overall amenity of the surrounding area. Detailed plans regarding the specific technology to be used for odour mitigation or the exact volume of livestock to be housed there have not yet been fully confirmed.
Because the proposal is still in its early stages, it remains unclear how local planning authorities will weigh the benefits of agricultural innovation against the community's environmental and safety concerns. It is also not yet known whether the developer will be required to submit an environmental effects statement before any work can proceed on the site.
Observers will be watching to see how the local council responds to the community submissions during the upcoming planning review process.
This report draws on original reporting by Wire report.
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