Residents block plans for waste plant

RESIDENTS have won a battle to block plans for a waste recycling plant near their homes at Warrington.
Councillors threw out the proposals, despite being recommended by officers to grant approval.
The proposed development on New Cut Lane, Woolston, was to have housed a waste transfer recycling centre and two industrial buildings.
Officers argued the scheme would contribute to sustainable waste management and increase recycling, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill.
But nearby residents voiced fears of noise, dust and increased traffic, particularly lorries.
Fifteen residents lodged objections – backed by Woolston Parish Council and borough councillors representing the Woolston and Rixton area – and the borough’s development control committee decided to refuse permission.
The plan was to establish a recycling centre for non-hazardous waste such as wood, green waste and hardcore and it was estimated the plant could handle around 25,000 tonnes of waste a year, attracting 50 vehicle movements a day.
The site is part of a former landfill tip but runs up to the fenced rear gardens of houses in Greymist Avenue and to industrial and commercial properties to the west and east.
The waste recycling building would be about 75 metres from the nearest houses – but the two industrial units will provide visual and acoustic screening for the properties.
Planners admitted there could be no guarantee there would be no complaints if the recycling operation started.