Smart Feeder - Light sensor values

[good_egg]

ok, so I think we are in a position where OH is definitely on board, we definitely need planning permission (boo) and I definitely want my girls to have more space..... So, the first logical step was to read through the wonderful "we're all planning WIRs" thread (yes, part 1, 2 and 3!!)

 

I still have a couple of questions though and would appreciate opinions on the two potential options. It doesn't look like A4U is a goer - the octagonal one is quite expensive and we would need to fly down, hire van, collect and drive back which adds quite a lot of cost. Same problem for a "normal" one although slightly less cost. But there is still a little bit of me that is tempted - they look so good..... Is it worth the drive? Btb, when did Tony become Lewis?

 

So option 1 is this one

http://www.flytesofancy.co.uk/chickenhouses/Poultry_Protection_Pens.html

with this roof

http://www.flytesofancy.co.uk/chickenhouses/Protection_Pen_Roof.html

We would probably try and build a bit of a solid end and first two bits of the sides (perhaps only half height) to offer them some more protection and also some kickboards - any hints/thoughts/comments welcome!! I am trying to work out how to build kickboards without there being a gap between the wire and the wood for stuff to get stuck in.....? Also need to work out an extra door - perhaps I need to e-mail them and see what they can do, has anyone dealt with them?

 

Option 2 is this one:

http://www.thecotswoldwoodcompany.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&path=83_128&product_id=226

Again we would probably try and build a bit of protected area at the end. Not sure what the onduline roof is like and if there are any advantages/disadvantages. I had read somewhere that felt might be bad for red mite, but is this the same? I have emailed these people, but haven't had a response yet (might chase)

 

Caveat: I am likely to be a pain with questions over the next little while and will probably change my mind lots!

[Egluntyne]

I've got option 2 and get on with it very well. I've had it a number of years now and it is still in good nick. There is a slight leak in part of the roof, but I slung a tarp over it and all is well.

[good_egg]

I have e-mailed them again with a couple of queries. Think hubby prefers that one, but I wasn't sure about the roof - assume the leak is damage rather then default Eglutyne?

 

Need to make decision, put in plans and then wait to order - I am not a patient person, this is not good!

[Egluntyne]

The leak appeared after a couple of years. No idea what caused it. Probably me using a snow shovel to push snow off the top.

[sjp]

The leak appeared after a couple of years. No idea what caused it. Probably me using a snow shovel to push snow off the top.

you've more than likely court the wahers that the screws sit in or with the roof been black they have bcome a little bit loose through expantion and contraction

[libby22]

I have option 2 and it is great - very sturdy.

 

I would say give them a ring and leave a message and the Cotswold Wood Company will ring back quite quickly. I think it is a small family firm and it is a case of all hands on deck so this is the best way to catch them.

 

Hope that helps.

[Goosey Lucy]

I now want Option 2 too.

 

Just have to work out

a) if we have enough space

b) if we need planning permission

c) how I can afford it

d) how I could get it here

 

Lucy

[good_egg]

From a lot of research you shouldn't need planning permission is it is under 15sqm unless you live in a listed building. There is a planning portal on Scottish government website that is really helpful would assume similar in England, not sure where you are! Going to phone them tomorrow flyte so fancy replied and were really helpful.

[Goosey Lucy]

Thanks for that, I'm on the Isle of Man, I'll ring the local council in the morning.

[good_egg]

Ah, yes, everything is different there! Only say that cos your pensions/tax etc confuse me at work! Lol. Fingers crossed!

[Goosey Lucy]

They confuse the bejinxy out of me too!

[good_egg]

So, I have worked out that we can fit the 9x9x6 Cotswold wood one in. Possibly obvious as we could fit the flight so fancy one! OH likes the Cotswold wood roof etc better and figure better to go for bigger than just 9x6x6. Have been trying to get height of roof peak off them for 10 days or so now - emails and phone messages. No joy Can't submit planning permission til we get.

 

Girls run is looking v small in meantime.

[Mrs_B]

Oh, good_egg, sorry to hear you're having no luck in communication with Cotswold Wood Company!

 

Have you had any luck yet?

 

x

[good_egg]

no I feel like I am stalking them, but still nothing...... If I don't hear soon I am going to have to go with another company, but I really like the look of their runs and the wod filled in top etc - have plans for painting and hanging baskets etc. But my poor girls have a puddle in their run and look so squashed that I can't delay planning permission any longer!

[Mrs_B]

I can imagine how frustrating you must be finding this. Do they have a FB or Twitter page? I actually had a huge issue in getting in contact with Omlet via eBay and they weren't responding after over a dozen emails over 2 weeks which drove me crazy - but I went onto the Omlet FB page and messaged them there and a lovely lady sorted everything out for me within 24 hours.

 

Really hope you get the info so you and your girls can look forward to a WIR!

 

x