Derra Farms is seeking to demolish an existing smaller piggery on the site to allow for the construction of a larger pig-rearing facility with a capacity for 4,224 animals.

The company claims the new facility will allow for more modern production methods resulting in fewer emissions and less odour — a claim supported by Teagasc, the State advisory body for farming and agribusiness.

Ms Allen, the owner of Ballymaloe Cookery School in nearby Shanagarry, was one of more than 220 individuals and groups to file a submission with the local authority opposing the project.

The chef claims the development would “unquestionably” have a negative impact on her business as well as potentially contaminating Ballymaloe’s own spring water well.

Ms Allen said the development of a large piggery was “not the direction Irish agriculture should take”. “All over the world, the emphasis is on producing sustainable, nourishing, wholesome, chemical-free food that will enhance the health of the nation and doesn’t damage the environment or contribute to climate change,” she said.

She described the intensive farming practices planned by Derra Farms as “the polar opposite” of such an approach.

“The pervasive odour from the slurry is also of major concern and has the potential to devastate the integrity and reputation of our Sustainable Food Project,” she added.

The five-star Castlemartyr Resort also voiced its opposition “in the strongest possible terms” to the plans amid concern about their effect on the spa and golf complex.

The hotel’s general manager, Brendan Comerford, said the development could have a serious and detrimental impact on the wider tourism business in east Cork, as well as on his business.

Fáilte Ireland said the proposed development and the locations where pig manure from the plant is due to be spread are in close proximity to a number of tourism amenities including the proposed Midleton-Youghal greenway and beaches at Garryvoe, Ballinwillig and Redbarn.

Animal welfare charity Compassion in World Farming claimed “factory farming” like the proposed plant near Ballymacoda would have catastrophic results for people, animals and the planet.

Opponents of the project — including the Power (Protection of Water, Environment and Residents) Group — have expressed concern about odours, given the new plant is expected to create over seven million litres of pig slurry annually when operational.

Proposals to spread the slurry over 18 townlands in east Cork have added to the depth of feeling in the area, with more than 3,400 people signing an online petition objecting to Derra Farms’ plans. Other concerns include extra traffic of heavy vehicles, animal noise and the increased risk of pollution to local water sources.

An Bord Pleanála is due to rule on the appeal by the end of August.