Car wash developers claim support despite no consultation

Date published: 08 October 2009

A planning applicant for a power car wash in Oakenrod claims the development has community support, despite residents claiming that they have not been consulted.

The applicant states in his planning submission to the Council for power wash facilities, a car hire service and the refurbishment of the former garage on Bury Road, that 'the immediate neighbours have been consulted and they are found to be happy with the future plans'.

But local resident Andrew Linaker says that no-one has spoken to him or any of his neighbours about the proposals.

"I was surprised to read that the community has been consulted," said Mr Linaker. "I have talked to all my neighbours, and not one of us has been asked. It is worrying that the applicant is making these claims. I think the people of Oakenrod want some proper development proposals for this site. At the moment the site is an eyesore, and the concern is that a car wash and car hire business is not going to improve the area."

Ward Councillor William Hobhouse said: "I welcome that the planning department now puts details of planning applications on to the internet. However, I am concerned that applicants can use this route to make unsubstantiated claims that try to pre-empt the consultation period for objections or support for the application.

"I hope that the Oakenrod community will take the opportunity to express views about whether this application is appropriate for the area."