A 270,000-bird poultry farm near Grantham, dubbed a 'chicken prison' by animal rights campaigners, looks set to be given the go-ahead by South Kesteven councillors.

The plan submitted by ADAS UK on behalf of Stewart Adams would see the six-shed farm built at High Dike in Great Ponton.

Council officers have recommended that councillors approve the proposal at a meeting on January 8.

But campaigners from PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) previously described the plan as 'cruel'.

A 25,000 signature petition was submitted by the animal rights group opposing the plan and residents also raised concern.

Elisa Allen, director at PETA, said: "The last thing Lincolnshire needs is a new factory farm and the pollution, illness, and cruelty to animals that go along with it."

However, Kenny Dhillon, the agent for applicant Steward Adams, urged people to engage with the developers, read the submitted information and 'learn all the facts'.

Mr Dhillon said that the unit would adhere to the latest legislation adding: "The UK is the world leader in poultry welfare standards and those standards are more strict than elsewhere.

"Everybody is entitled to their own opinion but that should be contained within the facts of the submission."

Residents have raised concerns over a lack of publicity, smells and the effect on the environment and the nearby village.

The council said it received 144 letters of objection for the proposal which included concern over traffic, animal welfare and road safety.