Factory plan approved amid 500 objections

Five industrial units are set to be built on a former factory site in Shropshire, with approval for the project coming amid 500 objections.

Mercia Real Estate was granted permission by Telford and Wrekin Council for the scheme at the former GKN Sankey site at Hadley Castle Works, Telford.

About 100 local residents attended Monday's planning meeting, where the proposal prior to approval was said to run the risk of being "one of the worst decisions" in local history.

Sam Clarke from Mercia Real Estate said plans were deliverable and would provide "significant economic benefits", including skilled local jobs.

The plans incorporate office space, parking, gatehouses, cycle shelters and landscaping, although tenants have yet to be identified.

The developer revised its application after the planning committee deferred a decision in September to allow it to consult with residents.

Mr Clarke, Mercia Real Estate's chief executive officer, said the firm had since met with local councillors and a case officer to discuss concerns and share "technical notes" and residential views.

"We've amended plans for unit one, which have been submitted as part of this revised application," he added.

He said the firm had also voluntarily committed to being part of a community liaison group and intended each individual unit to submit a noise assessment prior to occupation.

"We want to reiterate that this scheme is deliverable and provides significant economic benefits to Telford including skilled jobs for local people," he said.

However, Hadley and Leegomery Parish councillors Phil Millward and Eileen Callear said at the meeting their requests for the developer to meet local residents were "flatly refused".

"We feel a refusal to speak to residents was insulting," Mr Millward said.

Ms Callear, who is also a borough councillor, told the planning committee: "If you approve this, you are risking putting your name into one of the worse decisions in Telford and Wrekin history."

Local resident Steven Bryant described the application as "an invasion of the green space buffer" protecting the community from "industrial noise and disturbance".

“We are entirely supportive of investment in our community, genuine job creation and sustainable growth, however it must be in partnership with the community and respectful to the local area," he added.

Councillor Nigel Dugmore was the only member to vote against the proposal, with others abstaining.

Councillors Giles Luter and Stephen Reynolds voted in favour, with the latter member's vote carrying as committee chairman.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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