Storage yard plan rejected
STEFAN JAJECZNYK
AN application for a proposed storage and service yard for portable building site cabins has been refused by council planners.
Applicants Eagle Plant wanted to use the site for the storage and maintenance of portable building site offices, similar to shipping containers, that would be hired-out to construction sites. They claimed that noise would mainly be from a diesel forklift used on site, as well as an electric power washer and trucks that would be used to remove and return the units.
Speaking on the firm’s behalf, Paul Kynaston, said: “The truck is not used a great deal, maybe half an hour a day.
Brian Adams spoke against plans at currentlyunoccupied site behind Kirkham’s Garage in West End, Oswaldtwistle - formerly a caravan storage site.
Representing the residents of nearby Buttermere Drive, around a dozen of whom were present at the meeting, Mr Adams said: “We feel that it is far too close to residential properties, it restricts our ability and rights to enjoy our properties as we wish.
“We may not be able to open our windows or sit in our garden on fine days simply because of fumes and noise.
“Just because the proposal is deemed acceptable in planning terms does not make it right.
“It opens up a totally new area of truly industrial activ- ity were previously there has been none. It brings to the area more atmospheric pollution involving diesel fumes and emissions, noise and general industrial disturbance.”
Cllr Stuart Eaves said: “My concerns are to do with the visual impact on people and the acoustic tests. The site could act as a natural amplification area and generate more noise than people think will happen. It could be a real problem for residents.”
Cllr Marlene Hawarth said: “My biggest concern is the noise. It all seems to be a lot of noise which I don’t think I would be so happy living this close to.”
But committee chairman Cllr Eamonn Higgins said: “Without noise there is no industry. I have heard that the developers seem very reasonable in their approach.
“They have offered to engage with the residents.”
Hyndburn’s planning committee voted seven-tosix in favour of dismissing the application on grounds of environmental impact and noise at a meeting on Wednesday, September 12.