Plans to build an asphalt plant at Sutton Bridge have been thrown out.
Franklin Bros Limited had applied to have the facility to make material for roads at Greenworld Park.
There were a host of objections, many citing concerns over potential air quality issues affecting nearby residents .
They included 268 letters against the proposals from members of the public and Sutton Bridge United Football Club stating ‘by products of the plant could be hazardous to all people using the park’.
South Holland District Council’s Environmental Protection officers offered possible conditions that could make air quality acceptable but recommended refusal on the grounds of noise issues.
The application was refused by officers and didn’t got to committee.
The report concludes: “The proposed development is considered to be inappropriate to the local area and neighbouring land uses, is an unacceptable use of land due to odour and noise which adversely affects character and should be refused planning permission.”
Craig Jackson, chairman of ‘Bridge Against Pollution’ which campaigned against the asphalt plant said: “I am sure everyone in Sutton Bridge will welcome the news that the planners have rejected the proposed asphalt plant – this is a victory for common sense and people power.
“I am delighted that South Holland District Council took on board and gave due weight to the very real concerns of local people.
“Those concerns focused on the detrimental impact on the health and well-being of local people in terms of noise, odour, and air quality, not to mention the negative impact on local amenities such as the Memorial Park and Curlew Centre.
“Likewise, it posed a risk to the significant inward investment secured for the village’s new sports pavilion, play zone and children’s playground.
“The support of our local MP Sir John Hayes has been pivotal and he quickly called a public meeting to listen to those concerns and there were many. This is reflected in the very large number of written objections which numbered 427.
“Considering the size of the population of Sutton Bridge this is indicative of the level of those concerns.
“The asphalt plant would have been the wrong type of development in the wrong location. The planners have made the right decision in the best interests of Sutton Bridge and local residents.”
