Base is harmful planners
Page 19
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N. LUNT & Son, hauliers, South Street, Thatto Heath, has lost an appeal against the decision of St Helens Council to refuse planning permission for maintenance workshops on the site.
J. H. Chadwick, the inspector who conducted a public inquiry into the appeal said that if granted the proposal would be unacceptably harmful because of noise and general disturbance.
The site is used for the parking, servicing and repairs of six road transport vehicles, Mr Chadwick said. He was aware of the firm's view that the use was an established one and ought to be permitted to continue in an improved and tidier form.
He took the view that irrespective of the site's previous history and surroundings, the proposal had to be seen in the light of present circumstances and planning intentions for the area.
The existing use involved manoeuvring of heavy vehicles on the site, as well as vehicular movements along the street. Mr Chadwick did not consider these activities suitable for a residential area.
The erection of the proposed building including garaging, inspection pits, office and toilet accommodation must enhance the commercial value of the site. If built, it would consolidate a non-conforming use in the area.
While it might not have been the appellants intention to expand the existing business, it seemed that the proposed improvements could lead eventually to increased activities on the site.
The repairing of vehicles under cover would not necessarily lead to any appreciable reduction in noise, the inspector added.