Abandoned factory where disease-ridden cows were slaughtered 'still a threat to humans'

A factory where animals infected with Mad Cow Disease were destroyed amid a rampant outbreak across the country, "undoubtedly" contains dormant and dangerous disease that could threaten humans, almost 16 years on.

Thruxted Mill was one of five UK sites where cattle infected with Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) were destroyed.

Scientists have warned against housing developments on the land, in a paper claiming the derelict seven-acre complex in Kent, may still be a safety threat today.