Campaigners have called on RSPCA Assured to end its endorsement of Cranswick.
Animal protection campaigners have said Cherry Tree Farm in Breckland, Norfolk is the subject of environmental breaches and unlawful development but continues to be part of the scheme.
Humane Being volunteers have said that Cranswick has been linked to more than 90 environmental permit breaches across East Anglia, with 13 recorded at Cherry Tree Farm.
RSPCA Assured has distanced itself from environmental issues, saying it “exists solely to improve the lives of farmed animals”.
A spokesperson added: “While environmental issues are extremely important, and we share public concern, we only certify animal welfare standards – environmental and planning matters are regulated by other authorities with the relevant expertise and powers.”
It also confirmed that its most recent visit to Cherry Tree Farm showed no animal welfare issues were found and that it had been reassured by Cranswick that the business was taking environmental issues seriously.
The planning application for Cherry Tree Farm was due to be heard on 30 September but councillors have delayed the meeting for a third time.
Campaigners have said the repeated delays are unacceptable and show how the system is “stacked against communities and in favour of corporate factory farms”.
They fear Cranswick has been given extra time to consolidate its development, while residents suffer foul odours and pollution.
“This is exactly what people mean by Broken Britain – corporate giants like Cranswick bending the rules, while institutions like the RSPCA betray the values they were founded on,” said Jane Tredgett, former RSPCA vice chair and RSPCA Assured board member. “I hope the RSPCA’s newly appointed CEO will make it a priority to end this betrayal and ensure the charity is no longer providing cover for factory farming through the RSPCA Assured scheme”
She added that she felt the scheme was “not protecting animals – it is protecting industry”.
Cranswick told The Grocer it had submitted a revised planning application for the site over four years ago and that it was working with the council to resolve the issues.
In addition, “the farm is operating in accordance with the permit issued by the Environment Agency and is wholly compliant to the RSPCA Assured standards”, the spokesperson added.
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