A dairy farm has been given permission to build a large prefabricated shed to provide shelter for its herd.

Green Land Dairy initially applied for permission to build the structure as well as a new manure pit on the Smith’s farm in May, and amended its plans slightly in October.

The plans were given the green light by the Development Applications Board last month, but Lidia Medeiros, whose husband, Valter, runs the dairy said they were “cautiously optimistic”.

“Planning has approved in principle but we suspect and anticipate that an appeal by a neighbour will be forthcoming,” she said.

“Depending on the extent of the appeal and the appealing process, we do not feel comfortable enough to say that it is a go ahead at this time. We are cautiously optimistic.”

According to minutes of the DAB’s meeting only a partial Certificate of Completion and Occupancy will be issued for the development.

The minutes state: “If, within six months of the day of issuance, no complaints relating to smell determined by the Department of Health to be the cause of the new pit a final Certificate of Completion and Occupancy shall be issued.

“If, however, complaints of smell — determined to be associated with the new pit are received, an application for revision shall be submitted to the Department of Planning for the installation of a top to the pit with associated p-traps.

“The Department of Planning will consult with the Department of Health who must approve the design. Once installed and signed off by the Department of Planning, a final Certificate of Completion and Occupancy shall be issued.”