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Chickens Given The Green Light To Cross The Road

Chickens Given The Green Light To Cross The Road

Cogeo Successfully Gains Planning Consent for Unique Chicken Underpass at Howden Farm

Demonstrating a continued dedication and experience in handling challenging planning permission projects, Cogeo has celebrated another significant planning approval success. On Tuesday, 3rd October, the East Lothian Council Planning Committee unanimously granted planning permission for a unique underpass designed specifically for Howden Farm chickens to cross the road!

This innovative solution not only promises a safer environment for the poultry at Howden Farm but also stands as a testament to Cogeo's commitment to an out-of-the-box thought process and ensuring the success of its clients' projects, regardless of the complexities involved.

Although the notion of an underpass for chickens might have spurred light-hearted jests across media channels—conjuring age-old jokes about chickens crossing the road—the seriousness and diligence of the Cogeo team's approach to this project cannot be understated. The project garnered significant attention as showcased in various media outlets such as the BBC, which you can read here

Howden hen crossing image 1

Understanding the need for an environmentally considerate solution that caters to both the farm's needs and local concerns, Cogeo's strategic approach was instrumental in this approval. Our team dedicated themselves to conducting a comprehensive site analysis, liaising with key stakeholders, and ensuring the proposal met all regulatory standards.

The decision to create an underpass for chickens not only addresses the safety concerns for the animals but also reflects a broader commitment to innovative and sustainable planning solutions. Such projects are becoming increasingly pivotal in today's landscape, where there's a pressing need to harmonise human infrastructure with natural habitats.

Howden hen crossing image 2

Image courtesy Edinburgh Live

Bethan Lewis, Associate Director at Cogeo, commented on this success: "Our team understands the intricacies of planning applications, and we are always ready to support our clients through every challenge. While unique and unusual, this project underscored our dedication to crafting meaningful, impactful, and sustainable solutions for our clients. We also take an unbiased perspective when analysing projects and developing planning applications, ensuring all stakeholders' thoughts are heard and considered and any potential impacts addressed."

The application, recommended for approval by planning officers on the 3rd of October, includes the construction of an 18m long, 2.5m wide and 1.5m deep tunnel, linking the roaming areas for the chickens to the north and south via earth ramps. Construction will also reinstate the public road following the work, meaning an adequate vehicle traffic flow again in the surrounding area.

Howden hen crossing image 2

For those exploring planning application support, the story of the chicken underpass at Howden Farm is an inspiring example. The journey from conception to unanimous planning approval, albeit filled with its share of hurdles and, for some, an opportunity for the obvious 'chicken and road' jokes, showcases Cogeo's unmatched expertise in the field.

Browse our website to learn more about our approach and service solutions and how they can assist with your planning needs.

Our planning and environmental advisers are here to help. Contact us to discuss your projects and explore how we can become a partner in planning submission success for you.