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P FREIGHT INTERCHANG
Page 8
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Blears says no to huge Herts roackrait freight interchange
By Chris Tindal PLANS TO BUILD an enormous road-rail freight interchange on greenbelt land in Hertfordshire have been refused by a government minister for being inappropriate.
Helioslough wanted to build five warehouses with lighting masts and parking for 2.000 vehicles as part of a rail freight depot development on a former aerodrome near Radlett.
The plans were opposed by the local pressure group, Stop The Rail Freight Exchange (STRiFE), and were backed by both local councils and the Liberal Democrats.
Hazel Blears, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, agreed with the planning inspector that the proposal did not comply with the development plan. as it was inappropriate development on green belt land. She was not satisfied that Helioslough had demonstrated that no other site would come forward to meet the need for further strategic rail freight interchanges to serve London and the South East.
Helioslough co-founder Mike Hughes says the company is extremely disappointed with the decision. He adds: "However, we are gratified that in the secretary of state's reasoning, she recognises the UK's need for strategically located rail-served distribution hubs."
St Albans District Council leader Robert Donald says: "This was a good day and I am greatly relieved, as many residents will be, but I am not complacent."
He adds: -Helioslough. the developers, can still bring a legal challenge. If they do, we will of course continue the legal battle to ensure this hard-won victory remains intact."
A statement from STRiFE says: "This has been a long drawn-out campaign for us, and we cannot thank our team members and supporters enough for their unstinting efforts (and donations) to see this scheme off."
Helioslough is now reviewing the decision and taking legal advice.