A bid to build one of the biggest farming sites in Europe spread across two Norfolk villages that has spurred thousands of objections is facing a fresh hurdle.

Cranswick has submitted changes to its environmental permit for the sites in Methwold and Feltwell, which it hopes to turn into a massive pig and chicken farm.

Across two sites, the food production giant wants to house 870,000 chickens and 14,000 pigs, under the brand name Wayland Foods.

Villagers in Methwold and Feltwell are concerned about the effect the megafarm will have on their livesVillagers in Methwold and Feltwell are concerned about the effect the megafarm will have on their lives (Image: Denise Bradley)

It has lodged an application with the Environment Agency, which includes environmental assessments for the project - an important hurdle it must pass in order for the scheme to go ahead.

READ MORE: Plans for huge Norfolk megafarm called 'unlawful' by WWF

People can comment on the environmental permit by visiting the Environment Agency's website at consult.environment-agency.gov.uk.

Cranswick's plans have caused major controversy since they were first announced more than a year ago.

The proposed plans for the two connected sites in Methwold and FeltwellThe proposed plans for the two connected sites in Methwold and Feltwell (Image: West Norfolk Council)

It has received a huge amount of objections, including from international wildlife charities, vegetarian food giant Quorn - which has a site next door -  and about 10,000 letters from locals and people concerned about animal welfare across the country.

Cranswick says it will be a modern farming facility producing affordable food to high animal welfare standards.

Thetford & Brandon Times: Cranswick hopes to knock down the disused sheds and build 14 pig 'finishing' buildings at the siteCranswick hopes to knock down the disused sheds and build 14 pig 'finishing' buildings at the site (Image: Owen Sennitt)

WHEN WILL IT BE DECIDED?

Villagers are facing an anxious wait to learn of the fate of the project.

West Norfolk Council has delayed a decision to allow for Cranswick to submit further environmental assessments, which will study the potential pollution it would cause.

People locally are concerned the site is close to a Site of Special Scientific Interest, as well as the effect it could have on health due to ammonia emissions - a gas produced through livestock waste known to contribute to health conditions.

It is expected that WNC planners will assess the bid at some point in the new year.