Wiltshire company given three years to begin work on controversial warehouse
Gompels Healthcare must meet strict conditions before building starts
Gompels Healthcare in Wiltshire has three years to satisfy strict conditions before starting construction on its new Melksham warehouse.
Planning approval was granted in March for the 245,000 sq ft, 57 ft tall warehouse, despite concerns from Wiltshire Council officials about planning conflicts and potential negative impacts on the area.
Wiltshire Council's planning professionals recommended rejecting the application due to concerns about visibility, overshadowing, noise, and the impact on nearby residents.
Despite these objections, the council’s strategic planning committee approved the plans, prioritising economic and employment benefits over the potential drawbacks highlighted.
The final decision was ratified by the Secretary of State Steve Reed in April, who opted not to review the plans, leaving Wiltshire Council's decision intact.
Last week saw the finalisation of legal agreements, giving Gompels the go-ahead to proceed with the development under specific conditions.
The warehouse will be situated at Carnation Lane, Bowerhill, with the conditions requiring detailed plans on scale, appearance, layout, landscaping, and access before any construction begins.
Other stipulations include strategies for landscape and earthworks to protect trees and hedges, alongside plans addressing ecological parameters and environmental management.
Drainage and flood prevention measures, alongside noise management tactics and biodiversity compliance, are essential before the project commences.
A bird management strategy is also necessary to safeguard local aviation activities.
Wiltshire Council's planning department conveyed its proactive approach towards the development, aiming to enhance the area's economic, social, and environmental conditions.