Dozens object to garage plans on fields near woods
GoogleDozens of objections have been lodged to plans to build a garage and MOT testing station on a patch of green land near a wood.
The proposals have been put forward for Hollybush Farm in Thornaby, Stockton, which had previously been granted permission to be used as a market garden.
Opponents said there was no need to develop on the green space and that industrial units on the other side of the road could be used instead.
However, the applicant said the development would create jobs and support the regeneration of a vacant piece of land and "complement its surroundings".
The applicant also said that when the land was bought in the 1980s it was part of an "extensive series of open fields" and not designated as agricultural land or "green wedge".
Objections filed with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council said the development would have a detrimental impact on wildlife and create noise pollution.
Impact on animals
One resident of Ingleby Barwick said development of the land was unnecessary when there was a "large industrial estate on the other side of the road".
"Should there be a further required demand for these services surely these vacant units would accommodate the intended purpose for the proposed units on this site," the objection said.
Another from Thornaby said the site would impact on the "diverse animals and birds" which live in the woodland near the proposed development.
"Noise pollution will affect the bird population in the woodlands including a pair of resident, very timid, small white egrets," the opponent said.
However, the applicant said the development should be given permission because new buildings would be built "broadly within the footprint" of buildings already given approval under the market garden plans.
"Sensitive design of the proposed development will moderate the impact ensuring the wider countryside will not be harmed," the applicant said.