| DRIVERS WIN FIGHT FOR TRUCKSTOP |
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Lorry drivers have won their fight to save a truckstop in Staffordshire from closure after planners threw out proposals to replace it with a business park.
Councillor Mrs Pat Griffin told last night’s planning committee she was concerned about the height of the proposed buildings, which would be seen for miles around. “I worry we’ll end up like Milton Keynes where they’ve got so many big depots,” she said. She added that the loss of the truckstop would deprive lorry drivers of a “safe and secure” stop. If the truckstop were to go, another of a similar size would had to be found, given the area was a transport hub for the country, said Councillor Jeff Ashley. Committee members argued the height of the buildings would damage the surrounding green belt environment and that there was no alternative site for secure lorry parking. Councillor Bob Cope said: “These are good planning reasons and given that 25 per cent of lorry hijacking and thefts from trucks happen in the West Midlands, we should take heed.” The application was refused by 28 votes to six. Welcoming the decision, district and parish councillor David Clifft said: “The closure of the site would force truck drivers to park up in surrounding villages such as Essington, Hilton and Featherstone.” By Marion Brennan
http://www.expressandstar.com/2007/11/28/drivers-win-fight-for-truckstop/ |