The Old Chicken Farm

The gate leading to the old chicken farm. Nikon D3s with Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8

On the outskirts of Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire lies a disused and run down poultry farm. For many years as I grew up, no more than half a mile from the site, I remember seeing lorries coming to and fro, always leaving full to the brim with crates stuffed full with 'objects'. As a kid I never really thought much about what each crate contained as I blissfully played pooh sticks with my mates in the stream which ran adjacent to the farm. It's only now, as I wander around the old buildings, that I have come to realise how many millions of chickens must have been raised in hot, dark and incredibly cramped conditions only to be killed at such a young age simply in the name of mass consumerism. Old buckets litter the floor, switches and plug sockets still hang from the walls as do dozens of large metal hooks, giving a sad glimpse into the dark past these buildings once hid from the public. Only now, years after the farm has shut down for the final time, does it look at peace with its surroundings. Indeed, nature is reclaiming the land, brambles push through the windows and young Birch grow throughout the grounds. The entrance is now completely blocked with large bushes and thousands of nettles, as if to say to any passing container lorry, you will never enter again.

One of the old chicken housing units. Nikon D3s with Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8

The old Ross Poultry site on the outskirts of Woodhall Spa. Nikon D3s with Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8

The sun sets over the run down poultry site on a cold early Spring evening. Fuji X100

One of the many warning signs.    Nikon D3s with Nikkor 24-70mm F2.8

Left: Warning sign.  Right: Not much natural light could enter the chicken buildings. Both, Fuji X100 

Control units are scattered throughout the site. Even the feeder units are automated. Fuji X100

The beautiful little stream running adjacent to the farm. Fuji X100