Dear Editor,

Ross residents should be aware of a series of planning applications under number P173774/F at Biddlestone Orchards near Llangarron. This is an agricultural development that is of an industrial scale and is probably the single biggest application by area ever submitted in Herefordshire.

It proposes to cover approximately 80 acres of our countryside in permanent polytunnels and in addition it proposes to build accommodation for up to 240 itinerant migrant workers. This is a completely new polytunnel site that will be visible for miles and from many local high spots including Llangrove, Herbert’s Hill, Llangarron Court and Tre Essey Cross, as well as a long stretch of the A4137.

Due to the vast number of documents on this application our local Parish Council has sought and had granted an extension to carefully study what is being proposed before replying to Herefordshire Council. There is a Parish Council meeting taking place on Tuesday, January 23rd at the Garron Centre to discuss this application. If possible please write to the LPC before this date and make your views known.

To contact the Parish Council email - [email protected]

For more information see the website –

This is clearly judged a significant business opportunity for the owners and investors. The big question we need to ask is what type of countryside do we want for future generations. Do we want industrial scale development that is continuous white plastic stretching for 80 acres? As the development relies upon immigrant labour, is this the economic future local communities want? This development if approved could set a precedent for future similar expansion.

All residents have a say and we hope many will make their views known.

Biddlestone Orchard

Polytunnel Action Group