Laundrette ordered to turn machines off overnight

Operators of automatic washing machines at a supermarket have been told to switch them off overnight to stop potential noise and disruption for nearby residents.

The modular laundrette unit, next to the entrance of Morrisons in Lawley, Telford, was installed earlier this year, with a retrospective application following.

Planners at Telford and Wrekin Council said the machines should be switched off between 22:00 and 07:00.

They also gave temporary planning permission for one year for the unit, so that the effect of it could be assessed.

The laundrette includes two washing machines and one drying machine.

ME Group International PLC, the agents for the laundrette owners, said the machines were designed to be maintenance-free, and were served by a network of more than 150 local engineers, who aimed to attend breakdowns within 24 hours.

Monthly visits were also scheduled, it added.

Planners told the applicants that there were flats and retail units less than 10m (32ft) away.

"Given the close proximity of the unit's location to neighbouring residential properties the local planning authority consider a one-year temporary consent to be appropriate, so the site can be monitored over a longer time period to ensure no significant detrimental impacts would occur," planners said.

"Following a period of one year, the applicant could reapply for a permanent consent, ensuring sufficient evidence is submitted to demonstrate that no significant adverse impacts have occurred and no harm would arise from the development on a permanent basis."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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