CHICKENS will soon be able to cross a road near Gifford – thanks to a special underpass.

East Lothian Council has approved the proposals for a crossing for the hens at the B6368 at Howden Farm.

The scheme is the second of its kind, after East Lothian Eggs Limited was previously given permission for a similar crossing.

A statement from Howden Eggs Ltd outlined the need for the underpass, saying: “This proposal will involve a crossing under the B6368 roadway for the hens, allowing them to safely access the range to the north of the roadway.

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“Previous schemes consented as part of the operational hen shed unit will continue, including the earth bund and range planting plans.

“The underpass will allow the applicant to use land under the ownership of Howden Farm to meet their full 40ha ranging requirements and allow their eggs to be classed as free-range.”

The local authority’s planning department received no objections to the latest proposals.

The crossing would measure 2.5 metres wide by 1.5 metres in height, creating “sufficient space” for the animals to pass through freely to the northern range area.

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The supporting statement described the proposed underpass as “imperative” to the future of the free-range poultry operations at the business.

It reads: “With large retailers committed to banning the sale of caged eggs by 2025, there is a national drive towards the deployment of high-quality free-range egg units with high welfare standards to enhance the country’s dwindling food supply.

“To ensure free-range status can be implemented at the sheds, it is essential that this underpass is allowed to go ahead.”

The council’s approval noted that the underpass would allow for the expansion of the operation on the site.

It stated that the underpass would “facilitate the operation of an existing rural business” and said: “This in turn will support the viability, sustainability and diversity of the local rural economy of East Lothian.”