Planning Applications - Hyndburn Borough Council

has an established use for an industrial use and thus such matters relating to the intensity of traffic
generated by the proposal should not be an impediment to approving this scheme.
Objectors argue that the proposal would result in a detriment to their amenities by virtue of the size
and location of the building. Although the proposed is in no way exceptional in terms of design
neither is it wholly inappropriate for the area. In my view while the proposed building is somewhat
higher than the existing buildings the new construction would be sufficiently distant and offset
from neighbouring residential properties so as not to cause a disproportionate loss of amenity
compared to the existing site which is dilapidated and often fly tipped. As such I would not suggest
that alone such issues would be adequate to maintain a refusal of this proposal.
Secondly the objectors identify that the redevelopment of this site would result in a more formal
link between the residential areas of Huncoat and the existing industrial estate. This seems to be
more a representation regarding the existing land uses than an objection to the proposals. The site
as it stands could be re-opened and put to a significantly more intensive use, with much the same
effect as cited by the objectors, and without application to this authority. As such I do not consider
that this is an adequate reason for refusal.
Thirdly the objectors claim that the loss of trees associated with this proposal should be reason for
refusal. It would highlight however that the trees are not protected by a Tree Preservation Order
and could be removed in their entirety without application to this authority. Although any
unnecessary loss of trees is unacceptable I would suggest that any losses proposed in this case
should not be impediment to the future use of an existing industrial site.
A number of the objectors concerns regarding this proposal relate to loss of amenity due to opening
times, noise, dust, and disturbance, and associated traffic. Although relevant concerns it is
important to note that the proposed site has an existing industrial use which could significantly
intensify without application to this authority. Consequently I consider that such concerns do not
provide adequate grounds for refusal of this proposal but it may be appropriate to condition
appropriate opening hours for the proposed development.
The proposal represents the redevelopment of an established industrial site which is relatively close
to residential properties on the opposite side of Whinney Hill Road. I consider that the design and
layout of the building is satisfactory. The highway authority is satisfied, with appropriate
conditions, that the development will not adversely affect highway safety. Bearing in mind the
existing use of the site I consider that the proposals are acceptable, comply with Policy I2 of the
Hyndburn Borough Local Plan and I recommend that the scheme be approved.
Recommendation
Approve subject to the following conditions:
Condition(s) and Reason(s)
1 The development must be begun not later than the expiration of three years beginning with the
date of this permission.
Reason: Required to be imposed pursuant to Section 91 (as amended) of the Town and Country
Planning Act 1990.
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