Black Brow abattoir near Wigton closed on July 7, 2023 in a move which has shocked customers.
The abattoir is a lifeline for Cumbrian farmers who have relied on the business since it was taken over in 2004 and its closure leaves local producers without access to a service.
A spokesperson for the business said that abattoir was used for slaughtering cattle, sheep, pigs and goats, but the challenging pig industry has had a significant impact on the business’ bottom line.
A letter confirming the closure was distributed by managing director, Maurice Wharton, to customers last month and the 5.31 acre site is now on the market for £795,000.
NFU Cumbrian council delegate and west Cumbrian farmer, Alistair Mackintosh said the business was an essential service to the local farming community and was fundamental to many operations maintaining their business:Â “It is a shame and a blow that we are losing yet another small abattoir in this country. The aim is to have a vibrant rural community and it is handy to use a local facility that importantly cut down on local food miles.
“It is always hard on the farmers and butchers who use it and where do they go now?” said Mr Mackintosh, who is also vice-chair of Red Tractor Assurance. I believe the abattoir did a good trade with pigs originally, but now the pig industry is suffering many challenges, and this will have impacted economically on the abattoir.
“Farmers will have to travel further afield which will affect their carbon footprint.”