Appeal Allows New Lorry Park Near M26 Junction 2a

Plans to build a 24-hour lorry park with 200 spaces near the M26 junction 2a in Wrotham Heath have been approved after an appeal, despite earlier rejections. This decision has stirred both support and concern among local authorities and residents.

Overview of the Lorry Park Proposal

Originally, the Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council (TMBC) rejected the proposal to construct the lorry park on green belt land. The council believed the development would spoil the natural beauty of the area and cause significant harm to its countryside character. They felt it would encroach on the green spaces and that there were no strong reasons to justify such harm to the environment.

However, Moto Hospitality, a major service station operator, appealed against this decision. The Planning Inspectorate, a government agency responsible for examining planning appeals, reviewed the case and decided to overturn the TMBC’s rejection.

What Will the Lorry Park Include?

The approved facility will not only feature 200 lorry spaces, but it will also have:

• A fuel station
• An amenity building for drivers
• New access routes to the A20

Key Reasons for Approval

The Planning Inspectorate concluded that the 16-acre land, despite being situated in the Metropolitan Green Belt, is considered "grey belt" land. This designation indicates that it does not contribute strongly to the traditional green belt objectives, like preserving countryside or building a clear boundary between urban and rural areas.

Local and Environmental Concerns

While the inspector acknowledged that the development would impact the open rural character of the countryside, they pointed out that the effects would be limited due to existing developments nearby, like the motorway. The report mentioned the fields were not peaceful because of noise and visual disruptions from the M26.

The inspector noted: “These changes would cause limited and localized visual harm to the setting of the Kent Downs National Landscape (KDNL), which could not be avoided.” However, they stated that landscaping efforts associated with the project would be enough to reduce negative impacts on the environment.

Reasons for Urgent Need for Lorry Spaces

Moto Hospitality highlighted a pressing need for around 1,000 more lorry parking spaces in Kent. The planning inspector deemed this need as "compelling," pointing out that the demand is expected to grow over time.

The spokesperson for Moto Hospitality stated, "Providing a safe place for drivers to use a toilet, have a shower, and purchase a meal can hardly be described as a luxury." They argued that the truck stop would fulfil an essential need and offer various public benefits that support the freight and logistics industry.

Economic and Social Impact

Moto evaluated that the benefits of the development outweighed the potential harm to the Kent Downs area and local heritage. They emphasized the importance of a safe resting location for drivers, which could decrease stress for those working in a challenging industry struggling to recruit and retain staff.

Jess Lockwood, Moto’s property director, welcomed the appeal’s success. He stated, "We welcome the Planning Inspectorate’s recognition of the need for additional HGV spaces in the area."

Community and Local Authorities React

However, not everyone is pleased with this decision. TMBC leader, Cllr Matt Boughton, expressed concerns over the implications for green belt land protection. He stated, “It is clear that the government’s new ‘grey belt’ tilts the balance in favor of development in what we have known as green belt land for decades.”

Cllr Harry Rayner from Kent County Council earlier suggested that this lorry park might be better located near the M20, specifically at Maidstone services near Leeds Castle. He pointed out that more freight will likely use the M20 when the proposed Lower Thames Crossing is built.

Next Steps in the Development Process

Despite the approval of the outline plans, there are still many steps to go before the lorry park becomes operational. Moto Hospitality must submit detailed plans, which will require further approvals from local authorities. They have committed to collaborating with local communities and stakeholders as the project develops.

Conclusion

The decision to build a lorry park at Wrotham Heath has initiated a debate between the need for infrastructure and environmental preservation. As discussions continue, the balance between supporting essential services and protecting green spaces remains a critical concern for local residents and authorities.