Plant extension would cause traffic backlog (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

Plant extension would cause traffic backlog

June 29, 2006 7:04 AM

Otley and Yeadon Councillor's Graham Kirkland and Ryk Downes have spoken out in opposition to a planning application that could have major consequences for the local environment.

The proposals, submitted by Bridge End Quarry, seek permission for a temporary extension to their concrete batching plant, despite the site being within Otley's Green Belt cordon. The extension could also pose problems for local commuters, due a likely increase in heavy goods traffic should the plans get the ok.

Both Cllr Kirkland and Downes have initially objected to the plans for the extension to the plant, which had been scheduled for closure this year.

Councillor Graham Kirkland (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) said "There are large numbers of HGV movements into and out of the site. These are dangerous at the entrance at Otley Bridge where the bridge structure partly obscures the vision of approaching motorists. Whereas the gravel to make the cement was produced on site, now that the gravel extraction plant has been closed, it has to be brought in from elsewhere, significantly increasing the amount of turning traffic into and out of the site."

"Similarly cement powder has to be imported, again in very large bulk containers causing blocks not only onto the site, but also in the Town Centre where the road system is narrow and tortuous. There is in my opinion no realistic chance, even in the distant future of the site at Midgley Farm, east of Otley being available, or, if that is used for gravel extraction for there to be enough spare space to put a concrete batching plant in as well."

" I was under the impression that in mid 2002 when the current permission was given that a legally binding undertaking was given that the site would be closed down and restored to nature, when the permission expired in 2006. Well, its now 2006, its time to pack up and go, as was promised."