FISH FARM SEEKS APPROVAL FOR LARGE CANOPY TO SUPPORT SALMON PRODUCTION

Fish farm seeks approval for large canopy to support salmon production. A massive green canopy could soon be erected over England’s largest land-based fish farm, as its new operator plans to introduce salmon farming to the site.

Coldwater Salmon Ltd has submitted a proposal to construct a 3,240-square-metre steel and PVC canopy at Barford Fish Farm, located near Downton. The farm was previously operated by Trafalgar Fisheries, which ceased operations in March 2025. Until then, the site had been used to raise trout in a series of concrete-lined ponds.

The new tenant says the canopy is essential to adapting the existing infrastructure for salmon farming and enhancing fish welfare. According to a planning statement, the site was first established over 40 years ago by the 8th Earl of Radnor, who made use of the naturally flowing water from the River Avon to support small-scale fish ponds.

Today, the site stands as the largest land-based fish farm in England, known for maintaining high standards of animal welfare and supplying rivers, lakes, and reservoirs with both rainbow and brown trout.

The proposed canopy would serve two key purposes: to shield the ponds from external contaminants and to block natural light, enabling better control over environmental conditions through artificial lighting. Both measures aim to enhance the health and quality of the fish.

The planning statement explains that open-air ponds are vulnerable to a range of pollutants, particularly harmful bacteria and viruses introduced through animal waste—especially bird droppings. These contaminants can negatively affect the health of the fish and compromise the taste and quality of the final product, thereby reducing its market value.

Without the canopy, the current ponds would not provide a suitable environment for salmon, due to fluctuating weather conditions and the risk of contamination. The structure is therefore considered essential to the continued success and sustainability of the business.

To minimise visual impact, the canopy will be finished in a green colour that blends with the surrounding landscape.

Reduced operations and staffing proposed under new fish farm management

“Trafalgar Fisheries previously employed eight staff members to operate the fish farm and manage on-site production facilities, with daily visits from lorries and other delivery vehicles transporting packaging materials and fry,” a planning statement notes.

“In contrast, Coldwater Salmon Ltd plans to implement more efficient farming methods and discontinue on-site production activities. As a result, only three staff members will be employed, and the number of lorry movements and deliveries will be significantly reduced.”

The proposal is one of several planning applications submitted to Wiltshire Council for the Salisbury area during the week ending July 27.