EP 28, David Mark PT 2: Broiler Farm Expansion in the UK – Planning Permission, Permits and Investin

Описание: In this episode of The Poultry Network Podcast, Tom Woolman and Tom Willings are joined again by poultry consultant David Mark to discuss what it takes to develop new broiler units (or expand existing broiler sites) in today’s UK poultry industry. Drawing on his work with growers (including many in Lincolnshire), David sets out where the opportunities are, what the biggest blockers tend to be, and how to approach the process with a clear commercial plan.

Inside the episode:
• Broiler sector outlook: demand for chicken, improved efficiency and the need for continual reinvestment in housing and equipment
• Partnership in an integrated supply chain: why contract growers matter to integrators (including Moy Park and Avara) and the role of the British Poultry Council (BPC) in pushing the case for new capacity
• Choosing your operating model: contract grower vs managed contract (including outsourced farm management) vs farm business tenancy / fully repaired lease — and how risk and margin differ
• People and performance: how to keep control as you scale, the role of farm managers, and practical options for stepping back from day‑to‑day work
• Planning and permits: site selection, separation from neighbours, pre‑application advice, and building a “pipeline” so you’re ready when planning starts to move
• Expanding existing sites: how stocking‑density changes and existing permissions can sometimes unlock additional shed capacity
• Biosecurity and public confidence: avian influenza risk, why farms can feel “closed”, and how open farm events and viewing access can help
• Nutrient management and poultry litter: treating litter as a storable by‑product, plus solutions such as biogas/biomethane, CO₂ capture and turning digestate into balanced fertiliser

If you’re in the UK researching broiler sheds, broiler farm expansion, planning applications, environmental permits, contract growing or managed broiler production, this conversation will help you focus on the decisions and the conversations that matter.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:55 Evolution of the Poultry Industry Since 1988
02:15 Current State and Efficiency in Poultry Sector
03:38 Partnerships in the Poultry Supply Chain
05:31 Challenges and Biosecurity in Poultry Farming
07:13 Considerations for Building Broiler Sites
08:42 What are the different models for expanding poultry farming and how can they address staffing challenges?
11:27 Innovations in Poultry Byproduct Management
13:01 What do people need to do to make sure they have the best shot at planning permission for expansion in the poultry industry?
15:25 Advice on Planning and Strategic Partnerships