Needham Market lorry park off A14 given the go-ahead

KLH Architects Ltd, on behalf of Openultra Felixstowe Ltd, first lodged plans with Mid Suffolk District Council in April 2021 for land at the Lion Barn Industrial Estate in Needham Market.

The lorry park will be located off the A14 at the industrial site in Williamsport Way.

Up to 28 HGVs will be accommodated, with planning documents stating the nature of the business is transporting container haulage to and from the Port of Felixstowe. 

The lorry park will sit at the edge of the town (Image: Google Earth) Plans suggest that a two metre high fence would be erected around the site.

Needham Market Town Council objected to the proposals as it was felt it did not comply with the neighbourhood plan policy as it provided minimal employment opportunity. 

One full-time job on the site would be created. The planning statement adds up to 15 drivers from contractors would be using the park on a daily basis.

READ MORE: Used car dealership has plans for new showroom in town approved

Concerns were also raised in regards to the level of HGV traffic on the surrounding roads.

An officer's delegated report said the development would not result in a "severe impact" on the highway, although conditions will be imposed. 

They added the development is considered "acceptable" in terms of highway safety.

"The proposal is considered to deliver social and economic benefits, in an appropriate location, in proximity to a town, within an established industrial estate, with safe and suitable access to the town centre and strategic transport network," the officer report adds. 

Among the conditions set out by planners include the provision of a construction management plan, hours for which construction can take place and a surface water drainage scheme. 

It comes after proposals for a used car showroom in Williamsport Way were recently given the go-ahead by planners.