Lorry base refusal is reversed (From Warrington Guardian)

Lorry base refusal is reversed

RESIDENTS who successfully campaigned to halt plans for a nearby HGV base have had their victory overturned on appeal.

Congleton Borough Council refused permission in April for a transport/distribution warehouse for STD Developments, on the Radnor Park Trading Estate in Congleton.

Residents of Back Lane feared it would result in night-time disturbance.

STD Developments appealed against the decision, and planning inspector John Mattocks allowed the appeal subject to revised conditions.

On a site visit Mr Mattocks noted: "At 11:30pm an STD vehicle arrived and I observed the clattering sounds, squeal and release of air brakes as it came to a halt before making the right turn into First Avenue."

However, he contends that: "Anyone living on a road which leads to a major employment area might expect to live with a degree of disturbance."

Although he admits the HGV movements to and from Back Lane will 'undoubtedly' cause disturbance to residents, Mr Mattocks also stated: "Provided the number of such movements is strictly controlled within specified hours the use is acceptable in an established employment area despite the proximity of housing to the access road."

He also notes the uneven road surface is contributing to the noise from trailers, but the council has no plans for improvements, although a traffic-calming scheme is due for consultation.

Conditions attached to the appeal decision prevent HGV movements on Back Lane between 2am and 6am daily, and between 12pm Saturday and 6am Monday, and Bank Holidays.

Also between 11pm and 2am HGV movements are restricted to six visits in or out of the site.