PLANNERS have recommended councillors approve a proposal for two chimney stacks for a medical research company in Macclesfield despite more than 100 residents objecting amid fears of potential health impacts.
Orbit Investments (Properties) Ltd wants to build the 14m high chimneys and associated plant equipment at Peakside House on Springwood Way at Tytherington Business Park to enable a medical research company to move into the former office block.
A report from Cheshire East's planners to next week’s meeting of the northern planning committee states: “No harmful impacts are deemed to be generated by the proposals with regard to design, amenity, ecology, air quality, odour, operational noise, vibration, dust or highways safety, subject to the imposition of conditions where necessary.”
But 109 residents have objected to the application, questioning whether there could be health implications if the chimneys are sited so close to their homes and a children’s nursery.
In a call-in letter Cllr Edwardes said: “I, and many residents, are concerned about what will be emitted from the chimneys. Will there be odours and noxious substances? There is a playground and a nursery school nearby.”
He added: “The chimneys are totally out of keeping with the general character of the business park. What exactly is the research planned for the building?”
Cheshire East planners say further information has now been provided by the applicant.
The officer’s report states: “As no air quality assessment was provided with the initial application pack, many local residents were concerned that industrial scale processes such as chemical manufacturing or incineration would cause harmful pollution to be discharged from these stacks in an area dominated by residential and non-industrial commercial space.
"Due to the scale of the chimneys and lack of information initially provided as to the exact function and operation of the building, it is understandable that such concerns were raised.”
The report states an air quality assessment has now been provided and environmental health was consulted and had no objection to the proposals as the predicted impact was 'not significant'.
The new bespoke laboratory is expected to accommodate approximately 100 staff.
One letter of support was sent to the council stating the proposed use of the site would bring high quality business and employment to the area.
In recommending the application for approval, the planning officer states: “It is considered that, whilst the proposed chimney stacks and associated works will have some visual impact within the immediate vicinity of the site, they are appropriately scaled and suitably limited in form so as not to cause any significant harm to the overall character and appearance of this commercial area.
"Furthermore, it is noted that Tytherington Business Park is emerging as a focal point for businesses within the pharmaceutical research and drug discovery industry and this development represents safe and precautionary additions to a vacant building in order to support the growth of this industry and enhance the local economy and employment quality.”
The northern planning committee meeting takes place on Wednesday, December 6, at Macclesfield Town Hall.
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