THE president of the National Farmers' Union has said plans for a huge pig farm in Derbyshire are a good example of sustainable development.

Peter Kendall, speaking ahead of the NFU's annual conference this week, also said a pig farm in the county would be a better alternative for pork production than importing meat products from other countries with lower welfare standards.

Proposals for a huge pig farm, which have been criticised by animal welfare campaigners, have been made to Derbyshire County Council by Midland Pig Producers.

The company is seeking permission to build the farm, which could house up to 25,000 animals, near Foston.

The authority has received more than 16,000 objections to the proposal, with concerns raised about animal welfare, risk to human health and disease.