Plans to house 1,000 dairy cows in a milking unit in Powys are due to be scrutinised at a public inquiry today (Tuesday).

Fraser Jones wants to build the unit at his farm in Leighton, near Welshpool, but nearby residents have opposed the plan, claiming the dairy will be too close to their homes.  Animal welfare groups and the local primary school have also raised objections about noise, the smell, flies, pollution, increased traffic, the size of the development and its visual impact.

The proposal includes three large buildings, a fodder storage unit, two slurry stores and a water storage tower and Mr Jones said he has gone to great lengths to address all the concerns.

Powys county council has refused consent but Mr Jones hopes a government inspector will overturn that decision.