Coal yard owners’ storage unit plan
THE owners of a coal yard that was controversially mooted as a potential site for a family of travellers have put in plans to build a new storage unit on the site.
Derbyshire Dales District Council seems keen on the new development, recommending it for approval, despite opposition from neighbours.
The plans would see a new 27-metre storage building erected at the working coal yard, off Watery Lane in Clifton, to cover an storage area, which locals say is unsustainable, not in keeping, and too close to the Shrovetide goal.
The district council has received 35 letters opposing the plans, and one in support, but Clifton Parish Council lodged no objection, other than to express concerns about traffic movements on the busy country lane.
The highways department of Derbyshire County Council did not object, however, and planning officer Andrew Stock concluded in his report that the concerns of residents were noted, but he did not feel the building itself would generate any extra traffic.
Councillors will meet on Tuesday to discuss the plans, and decide whether or not to follow Mr Stock’s recommendation to approve the application.
Summarising his views in the report, which has been sent out to councillors, he said: “The proposed development and expansion of the established coal business at The Coal Yard through the construction of a new storage building is not considered to result in any significant adverse impacts on the character and appearance of this part of the countryside and local landscape, residential amenity, flooding or highway safety, subject to conditions.
“The development would, it is considered, comply with the relevant provisions of the development plan and guidance contained in the National Planning Policy Framework 2019 and a recommendation of approval is put forward on this basis.”
The coal yard site’s earlier designation as a possible site for a family of travellers had been spotted by villagers in Clifton, who mounted a strong opposition to the idea.
However, it was quickly dismissed during a lengthy meeting in September after councillors voted to press ahead with one of the alternative options – a site at Knabhall Lane in Tansley.
The coal yard was dismissed largely because of the costs of acquiring the privately-owned land - with the lease expected to cost £1 million in total.