Amidst the growing public concern over the application to build a concrete batching plant on the Cranmore Way Industrial Estate in Hornsey, local councillor Laura Edge (Lib Dem, Stroud Green) is calling on Haringey Council to conduct a full environmental impact assessment of the development.

In light of concerns expressed at last night’s public meeting, Ms Edge says such a detailed study is essential in view of residents’ fears and advice given by English Nature on the issue. She also points out that Haringey Council had initially asked for an assessment but the applicant appealed to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister which ruled that this was not necessary.

Laura Edge is also asking Haringey Council to ensure that a noise assessment is carried out in front of Chettle Court, the nearest property to the proposed site. Noise consultants failed to make such an assessment, claiming that they could not gain access. Ms Edge says that confidence in the planning process will not be achieved until an independent noise assessment takes place.

Laura Edge comments:

“I firmly believe that the site is not suitable for a concrete batching plant, and I believe that these comprehensive appraisals will demonstrate this. These must now take place. As a matter of fairness and courtesy, Haringey Council must also keep residents fully informed at all stages in the planning process. This includes writing to everyone who attended the meeting to let them know when the plans will come before Haringey Council. Green N8 and the other local groups which have worked hard on the issue must be kept fully informed.”

Cllr David Winskill (Crouch End) who was also at the meeting adds:

“I am particularly concerned at the admission last night that from London Concrete that their present estimate of 56 lorry movements a day are based on the plant working to approximately 50% capacity. If the plant was working at full tilt, we could be looking at well in excess of 100 movements per day.

“This would have a dire environmental impact on the local area, and must be factored in to any assessments by Haringey Council.”