Decision on site plan deferred
An ambitious planning application to transform a former engineering works in Lichfield and create up to 200 jobs has been deferred by councillors.
The redevelopment of the GKN Sinter Metals site, off Trent Valley Road, is set to include the demolition of existing buildings and construction of up to three vehicle dealerships, workshops and associated parking and access.
But at a planning committee meeting of Lichfield District Council, members went against their own officers' advice to approve the outline application – subject to conditions – and deferred it due to issues over highways matters.
A report to councillors revealed no letters of representation had been received with regards to the application, and comments from several consulting bodies were still awaited.
It also stated: "The applicants have demonstrated that the proposal is an appropriate use within an industrial land allocation, which can successfully contribute to employment generation. It is recommended that outline permission be granted, subject to conditions."
The report stated that a green travel plan, and a social and community facility contribution would all be required as part of the conditions. But councillors opted to defer until all issues had been resolved.
The former engineering works announced its closure in January 2006, with the loss of 170 jobs.
