Councillors will decide tomorrow whether a concrete factory can expand its operations, potentially bringing 34-54 new jobs to Gateshead.
The application was deferred pending a site visit by councillors on May 11 2022 after hearing residents' objections. The visit was completed on June 20 2022.
North East Concrete Ltd has sought permission for the construction of a new tarmac plant, a new concrete factory, and several new workshops at Longshank Lane. The application has generated mixed feelings with residents.
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Gateshead council received 64 letters of objection from residents claiming the development will negatively impact the health of residents and increased HGV traffic will pose increased risks to other vehicles and pedestrians. Residents also complained the proposed development will adversely impact local house prices.
The local authority also received a petition from 91 residents of Elm Crescent detailing other objections. The petition claims there was an inadequate public consultation and also claims there are problems with HGV drivers parking up in local laybys.
However, there have also been 50 letters in favour of the proposal. These letters stress the importance of the creation of new jobs and maintaining local industry.
Longshank Lane, Lamesley Road, Moor Hill Lane, Mary Avenue, Windsor road, and Edward Road were subject to a road safety review by council officers. The review concluded increased HGV traffic would not create substantially more risk to other motorists.
The final report concluded: “The proposal has generated public interest. All of the objections and concerns raised have been taken into account and addressed within this report.
“On balance the concerns raised were not considered sufficient to justify refusal of this application in light of the benefits of the scheme and the ability to impose conditions to control detailed construction, design and operational matters. There are no material considerations which indicate otherwise and the application is recommended for approval”.
Councillors will meet tomorrow at 10:00am in the civic centre to make their decision.
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