A national call urging the Government to secure the future of local abattoirs is being supported by Rother District Council.
A joint letter – signed by more than 150 organisations, businesses, and individuals from across the food, farming, environmental and animal welfare sectors – has been backed by the authority.
The letter, which has been sent to the Prime Minister, calls for urgent action to ensure a sustainable network of local abattoirs remains available to farmers and food producers.
The campaign highlights growing concerns about the continuing loss of small and medium-sized abattoirs and the impact this is having on local food supply chains.
Rother’s support is consistent with its wider ambitions for the district. In both its current Council Plan, and latest draft Local Plan, which is out for consultation, the authority sets out its support for abattoir facilities. The council says it recognises the value of rural industries in helping communities prosper and boosting the wider economy.
Cllr Christine Bayliss, portfolio holder for regeneration at the council, said: “Local abattoirs play an important role in supporting our farming communities, reducing food miles, improving animal welfare, and strengthening local supply chains.
“As a predominantly rural district with a proud agricultural heritage, Rother understands the challenges facing farmers and food producers. We believe it is essential that Government works with the sector to secure a resilient network of local abattoirs so that farming businesses can continue to thrive.
“Supporting local food production aligns closely with our ambitions for a strong local economy, sustainable communities and a greener future for Rother.”
The Abattoir Sector Group warns that the continued decline in local processing facilities is increasing costs for farmers, lengthening journey times for livestock, and making it more difficult for smaller producers to bring locally reared meat to market. By supporting the sector’s calls, Rother District Council is joining a growing coalition urging Government to develop a long-term strategy that protects local abattoirs and the essential role they play in maintaining resilient, sustainable, and high-welfare food systems across the UK.
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Published: 21st October 2026
