Inspector Invites Further Comments on Membury Asphalt Plant Appeal

The Government planning inspectorate has requested additional information regarding the proposed asphalt plant near Membury services, following an appeal that introduced new evidence. The inspector is seeking further representations specifically addressing issues related to the environmental screening request. This comes after the West Berkshire Council denied planning permission for the facility last year.

Local stakeholders, particularly from the horse racing industry in Lambourn, have expressed strong opposition to the plans. They argue that pollution from the plant could adversely affect the training and health of racehorses, which are vital to the district’s economy, generating approximately £22 million annually. Mark Drake, a partner at Putnham Property, the developer behind the scheme, highlighted the unfairness of the situation during the planning meeting, stating, “If you’re not a millionaire horse trainer you won’t get any support from either the parish or district councillor.”

The core of the objection centers on the notion that the presence of the asphalt plant could create a perception of risk to horse health, potentially driving away trainers and harming the local equine industry. Drake contends that “perception is not a reason to reject a planning application.” He argues that if trainers were genuinely concerned about air quality, they would not regularly use sand tracks and gallops for training.

Local trainers have voiced apprehension, asserting that even a slight decline in air quality could jeopardize the respiratory health and performance of top-level racehorses. They emphasize that the equestrian industry is the lifeblood of the area, and the implications of poor air quality could be detrimental.

Drake further criticized the local council, stating, “There is a concerning lack of support for construction workers in the valley by the parish council and local councillor, even though there are a large number of construction workers in and around their area already.” He indicated that the proposed plant could provide significant indirect employment opportunities.

In response to the concerns raised, council officers noted the absence of evidence linking asphalt production to harm in horses, suggesting that traffic from the nearby M4 motorway has a more significant impact on local air quality. They also acknowledged that there are no established air quality standards for animals, only for humans.

The deadline for submitting any further representations regarding the appeal is 5 PM on January 23, 2024. Stakeholders are urged to contribute their views as the inspector considers the next steps in this contentious planning process.