Factory plans backed for approval
A window manufacturer could run a 24/7 factory on a former military site, if plans are approved.
Epwin Group, which employs around 500 people in Telford, has applied to refurbish a building previously owned by the Ministry of Defence, at Hortonwood 37, and to build a brand-new 15,000-square-metre plant next to it.
Planning officers are requesting a £64,000 contribution to upgrade roads leading to the site, and the plans include a purpose-built access road off Hortonwood 37.
Planning officers are recommending councillors approve the plans, but Donnington and Muxton Parish Council has objected, claiming the traffic will increase noise and pollution in the area.
A report to be considered by Telford and Wrekin Council's planning committee, states: “The applicant is the largest manufacturer of PVCu window profile systems in the UK and have been established in the Telford area for approximately 30 years.
“The group is looking to expand its portfolio of products. The proposed development will include a manufacturing and finishing process to include powder coating, assembly, painting and lamination of products, together with a warehouse and distribution process.
“The proposed plant will operate 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week.”
The planning department has received two independent public comments raising concerns about the traffic impact, but the report authors note that the nearest homes to the site are on Stanmore Drive, Trench, 175 metres south, and separated from it by the A518, a railway line and trees.
The report states: "The proposal will result in significant social and economic benefits in terms of employment generation and inward investment in Telford area. The proposal can be accessed safely and without detriment to local or strategic network."
It adds: “As a major development, the application meets the trigger to provide a financial contribution towards strategic highways improvements.
“Based on trip rates generated by the proposal, a contribution of £64,455.33 will be required, to be secured by a memorandum of understanding.”
The committee will consider the application when it meets on Wednesday, January 30.
Story by Local Democracy Reporter Alex Moore
