Emergency services submit planning objection to protect public safety

Emergency services have objected to proposals for a waste site to be built next to the joint police and fire headquarters in Hindlip.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion, West Mercia Police and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) have submitted a joint objection that outlines concerns around the evidence, that was submitted with the proposals, failing to demonstrate that Hindlip Park wouldn’t be negatively impacted by poor air quality, odour, noise, and transport issues.

The leaders and governing bodies of both the police and fire services have had no prior engagement from the applicant, despite the proposed site’s proximity to the sensitive operations that take place at Hindlip Park.

PCC John Campion said: “It is disappointing to see that a planning application has been submitted for such a substantial site, with no regard for how the work carried out there will impact an operational police and fire headquarters. Within our objection we have made clear that we do not support these proposals unless clear evidence can be provided that would negate our concerns.”

Acting Chief Constable Alex Murray said: "Our objection is based on real concerns that the proposed site could negatively impact on the service we provide Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire. We appreciate the opportunity to have those concerns heard."

Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: “Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is fully supportive of this planning objection and, as one of the tenants of the Hindlip site, would be adversely affected by such a development.”