Petition launched against Kimbers waste site expansion

A petition has been launched against a decision to allow a large waste processing site to expand amid concerns for the safety of walkers.

The facility near Harvest Hill is set to go ahead after the owners won an appeal against the Royal Borough. The expansion would see the waste transfer station on Kimbers Lane able to process five times as much waste, from 5,000 tonnes up to 25,000.

But the Planning Inspectorate’s decision has gone down poorly with neighbours concerned that it did not take proper consideration of the safety of those walking.

They believe it will pose a risk to pedestrians, runners, cyclists, dog walkers, the disabled, children and parents with pushchairs.

Representing the Shoppenhangers Neighbourhood Watch Residents, Stephan Stephan has organised a petition directed to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove.

In the appeal report released last month, inspector B J Sims wrote that it is ‘not disputed’ that the expansion will cause 30-50 movements by HGVs per day – compared to the current six to eight. The inspector acknowledged the ‘complication’ of homes being built near the site – ie, the hundreds planned for Maidenhead Golf Course and surrounding areas.

Highway improvements ‘may be required’ to ensure the road network can accommodate the increased traffic flows, B J Sims wrote. However, Stephan feels no emphasis was given to pedestrian safety in this assessment, given the increase in lorry movements on a ‘narrow and twisty’ road.

He feels the plans are in conflict with Government aims to increase the number of journeys people take by foot, as opposed to driving.

It could pose a threat to those who will eventually move into new homes planned for the area – thus discouraging walking or other sustainable, active travel.

“If you’re encouraging people to walk and cycle, the last thing you need is more lorries because this will surely endanger them,” said Stephan.

He felt they hadn’t fully considered the future impact of the homes and resultant cars that will be coming. The petitioners are hoping that now it has gone through the Planning Inspectorate, Mr Gove will be able to give reconsideration of it, with the full local context in mind.

The planning inspectorate said it does not comment on an appeal decision. A spokesperson said: “Inspectors are independent and impartial. When making a decision the inspector fully considers the evidence submitted at the appeal and takes account of current planning legislation, policy and guidance.”

To see the petition, visit tinyurl.com/35jr68ty