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

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 fertiliserIf 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.