WARRINGTON’S largest logistics business Eddie Stobart has re-submitted their plans to build a National Distribution Centre (NDC) on Green Belt land at Barleycastle Lane at Appleton Thorn.
The proposals for a 59,000 sqm, state-of-the-art building on land close to the existing Eddie Stobart’s HQ would create at least 480 new jobs in Warrington and add £18 million to the local economy every year.
A previous planning application for the scheme was turned down by Warrington Borough Council – against Officer advice – in November last year. That decision has since been appealed for review by the Planning Inspectorate.
The new application follows a public exhibition process in February 2019 with the local community, which has resulted in additional investment being proposed for the local road network.
Speaking after the re-submission of the planning application, a spokesperson for Eddie Stobart said: “This is a significant milestone for the business as it looks to grow in Warrington, create new job opportunities and invest in the town.
“I am delighted that we have been able to explain the proposals in more detail to the local community and that many of those who took part in our consultation supported our ambitions.
“The scheme represents a unique opportunity for Warrington Borough Council to secure a £73 million investment in the borough and create at least 480 new jobs in the town.
“We have always said that Eddie Stobart needs to build its new National Distribution Centre next to its HQ and Training Academy in Warrington. We’re pleased that we now have an opportunity to work with the planning authority to deliver this vision , on a site earmarked for Employment development in the emerging Local Plan.”
Once validated, the planning application and supporting documentation can be viewed on Warrington BC planning portal at www.warrington.gov.uk
Local residents and councillors successfully opposed the application last year, with feelings still running high in the area following the council’s controversial decision to approve the Draft Local Plan and go back out to consultation for an eight week period starting on April 15.
