Battle vow on abattoir

Residents are forming an action group after increasing complaints about noise and smells from a slaughterhouse in Burntwood.

People in Chase Terrace are joining forces to tackle problems surrounding Farmers Fresh Ltd in Eastgate Street and will make representations at a public inquiry.

Farmers Fresh Ltd today refused to comment.

Lichfield District Council recently ordered the abattoir to demolish a covered loading area after a retrospective planning application was rejected as it was considered a highways danger.

Residents hoped the company would comply within the one-month deadline but instead it has appealed.

Lesley Johnson, who lives above the Hazelwood House pub opposite the abattoir, said: "We don't think the appeal will be heard until July which is ridiculous.

Lorries

"So we are getting together an action group with residents from each street so we can put everybody's points across."

She said the main problems stem from the noise of large articulated lorries driving to and from the abattoir and added: "The business has got bigger and bigger and shouldn't be there anymore in the middle of a built-up area."

Burntwood councillor Eric Drinkwater urged residents with objections to write to the planning inspectorate.

Lichfield District Council development services leader Neil Roberts confirmed an enforcement notice was served in September relating to the loading bay area, but an appeal had been lodged. "An outcome will be will be decided at a public local inquiry likely to be held in 2007," he said.

Anyone who wants to volunteer for the action group should call 01543 279441.

By Victoria Hoe