Botulism checks over market plan

The plan for a new market is to replace the one at Abergavenny

Experts are being asked if a site where there was an outbreak of botulism would be safe to build a cattle market.

Monmouthshire Council, which wants to replace Abergavenny's cattle market at a site in Bryngwyn, Raglan, is seeking reassurance there are no safety issues.

Local people voiced concern after a outbreak of the infection near High House Farm, the proposed site, several years ago.

Botulism is caused by a soil germ which can contaminate and survive in food.

I have asked independent experts to provide further assurances that the botulism outbreak of a few years ago will not be a danger if Bryngwyn is chosen for the livestock market Councillor Bob Greenland

A public meeting has been held in Llanarth where villagers objecting to the cattle market plans raised fears about the safety of building it on the site near where an outbreak occurred.

Councillor Bob Greenland, Monmouthshire cabinet member for regeneration services, said: "Following the meeting, I have asked independent experts to provide further assurances that the botulism outbreak of a few years ago will not be a danger if Bryngwyn is chosen for the livestock market.

"I look forward to receiving this information based on independent scientific knowledge, which will be made public so that local residents can be confident about the location's safety."

According to the NHS Direct website: "The germ is most commonly found in meat pastes and other processed animal products, and the great majority of cases have arisen from food prepared in the home and not properly sterilised.

"The condition is one of the most dangerous infections known, and often causes death."

The site, along with Little Castle Farm near Raglan Castle and Westgate Farm in Llanfoist, are being considered by the council, although High House Farm has been selected as the preferred option.

It is part of a plan to replace the cattle market in Abergavenny.

In December, plans to develop the site in Abergavenny which included building a new supermarket, as well as more shops, a cinema, library and large car parks, were thrown out by planning councillors after thousands of objections were lodged to the proposals.

However, it is possible that the developers could appeal against the decision or submit revised plans.