Anger is brewing in the small town of Vicq-sur-Breuilh (Haute-Vienne). In question, the future installation of a pigsty envisaged by a young farmer. The residents are very reluctant about the project. As proof, a petition launched two weeks ago has already collected more than 30,000 signatures, report our colleagues at France Blue. The mayor, Christine de Neuville, finds herself in a delicate position.
This pigsty crystallizes the debate on a specific point: its size. In fact, the 1,000 square meter structure must accommodate 1,000 pigs in total. Local residents are thus raising the problem of animal welfare. Another complaint: the odors generated by the thousand animals. Residents located near this farm fear having to live with these olfactory nuisances.
A health risk according to local residents
The collective behind the petition also sees a health risk, particularly with regard to soil pollution. Slurry used in agricultural fields, containing nitrogen and phosphorus, could contaminate groundwater and reduce the quality of drinking water. Last but not least, this type of “neighbor” tends to lower the value of real estate in the area.
On the town hall side, we are procrastinating. The councilor is waiting to have the final file to make a decision, but is leaning towards finding a compromise to satisfy the farmer and his constituents. A meeting also took place this Monday to try to find an agreement between the two parties.
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