Tuesday January 27th 2026
Bee Edge Farm, Berwickshire
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A proposal for a free range egg laying unit housing 32,000 hens on an established Berwickshire family-run farm is poised for approval – despite ‘Bird Flu’ concerns.
An application was submitted to Scottish Borders Council by WB Hamilton & Sons for construction of a unit at Bee Edge Farm on arable farmland between Coldingham and the A1.
The applicant operates an existing agricultural business which extends to approximately 2,400 acres of which 400 acres are owner-occupied land and 2,000 acres are rented, with a mixture of crops and livestock.
Given the nature and extent of the agricultural enterprise, the business has an essential need to diversify in order to remain sustainable and economically viable.
The applicant proposes diversifying the existing agricultural business into free range egg production, through the erection of a 32,000 bird multi-tier free range egg unit.
The proposal will secure future employment for the farming family and offer a sustainable and attractive career opportunity, with the creation of an additional two full-time jobs.
When members of SBC’s Planning and Building Standards Committee meet on Monday, February 2, they will be recommended to approve the application.
Nine objections to the bid were received, centred on concerns over odours, landscape and visual impacts, noise and the potential to attract vermin and flies.
The risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (a form of ‘Bird Flu’ aka Avian Influenza) transmission between coastal wild bird population and poultry was also raised.
The concerns are addressed in a report to be presented to members next week.
It states: “The proposed development would be in excess of 200m from the nearest third-party residential properties, public roads and or watercourses, and considerably further from formally recognised built and natural heritage assets.
“The siting of the proposed development therefore avoids many of the most sensitive receptors and interests in the surrounding area.
“Objectors have raised concerns regarding the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) transmission between poultry and wild birds, including seabird colonies at St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve, which is within the St Abb’s Head to Fast Castle SPA.
“Scottish Government reports indicate that the risk to the general public’s health from avian influenza is very low, and HPAI is predominantly considered a pathogen of birds.
“The applicant has confirmed that relevant guidance would be followed to reduce the risk of HPIA, with strict biosecurity being followed onsite.”
A report with the application states: “The applicants have received support from an egg production contractor and have a preliminary contract agreement in place, subject to planning approval.
“The proposal includes an egg store and service area, along with two feed silos.
“A free-range egg production system is an extensive and welfare friendly form of egg production.
“The proposed building includes an egg store and packing area together with accommodation for 32,000 laying hens.
“The bird housing area within the building includes a scratch area together with a series of tiered perches which overlay manure belts.
“We are looking forward by addressing the risk and vulnerabilities which face our sector.
“As part of our business improvement strategy we need to provide long term security for the farm with an additional monthly income which will support current and future generations.
“There is a growing demand for free range eggs. This would provide not only a stable monthly income but bring long-term benefits to our farming business.
“In addition two full time employment positions would be created. Once fully trained these would be an additional two skilled jobs in the area.”
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