A DECISION on whether controversial plans for a massive pig farm should go ahead has been delayed because a public consultation into the proposal attracted thousands of responses.

Midland Pig Producers applied to Derbyshire County Council for permission to build the farm, which could house up to 25,000 animals near Foston.

The authority received more than 16,000 objections by letter, e-mail or petition. A list drawn up by the council, outlining the main objections, shows animal welfare, risk to human health and the spread of disease are among concerns.

The council had expected to decide on the application in autumn but no date for the planning committee meeting has yet been set.

A council spokeswoman said the delay was down to the huge response.

She said: "We have had thousands of views during the consultation and have had to look at and consider them. Following this, we sent out for additional information. When this comes in we shall have to consider this."

A Midland Pig Producers spokeswoman previously queried exactly who had objected and why.

She said: "How many of the people have actually read the planning application which contains a great many facts and accurate details, particularly about animal welfare?"

She said the number of animals on a site had "no bearing on disease, which is controlled by hygiene, welfare and good management".