TTGDC says no to overnight lorry park (From Thurrock Gazette)

TTGDC says no to overnight lorry park

3:53pm Monday 15th June 2009 in News

PLANS for a secure overnight lorry park on land opposite the A13 and Arterial Road in North Stifford have been rejected.

The application, submitted by Norwich-based Lanpro Services Limited, includes the formation of an access road and associated facilities buildings.

At a meeting of the Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation (TTGDC) planning committee today, members decided to support officers’ recommendation of refusal.

Director of Lanpro Services limited, Philip Atkinson, said: “Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers are legally required to take regular breaks. Their are some 130 HGVs parked illegally in the area and it’s become a hot spot for HGV crime.

“The TTGDC received more letters of support than objection.”

The application includes secure gated overnight lorry parking for up to 90 commercial vehicles with a facilities building and a new access point from the A1306.

The site, which is approximately the size of three football pitches, is designated as Green Belt.

Committee member Ben Stoneham said: “There is no evidence from the applicant that there are no other more suitable sites.”

Committee member Sunny Crouch added: “We are sympathetic in providing lorry parking in the area, however, from the officers’ report I think it’s difficult not to support the recommendation to refuse.”

The application was refused on the grounds it would cause harm to the “free flow” and “safe movement” of traffic in providing a new access.