Development will be a benefit
YOUR anonymous correspondent on the subject of the Johnson Matthey extension (Postbag, February 8) has used harsh words about the planning authority for allowing this monstrous structure to go up. On behalf of the said planning authority, North Herts Di
YOUR anonymous correspondent on the subject of the Johnson Matthey extension (Postbag, February 8) has used harsh words about the planning authority for allowing this "monstrous" structure to go up.
On behalf of the said planning authority, North Herts District Council, I have to say that the company proceeded with this planning application impeccably.
It consulted with residents and councillors in June last year, before submitting its application.
When the formal application was received by this council, it was advertised in the normal way in The Crow, on site, and to adjoining residents.
You may also want to watch:
No objections were received from any of the statutory consultees, and that includes Royston Town Council and the Environment Agency.
Buildings under construction always look messier than the finished article and I suggest your correspondent waits until it is completed before judging its appearance.
Most Read
- 1 A505 campaigner on safety improvement progress and wrong-way driver near-miss
- 2 Kite Festival cancelled after lockdown extension
- 3 Grandmother runs Royston in Blue 5k solo to raise money for charity
- 4 Ex-footballers set for charity match to raise money for hospital cardiology department
- 5 What is happening in our area for Armed Forces Day?
- 6 Nurses to meet with unvaccinated social care workers to address concerns
- 7 Man jailed after attacking victim with glass bottle in hotel room
- 8 Uber-style app could mean doorstep bus pick up
- 9 Bloomsday group's post-lockdown gathering to celebrate Joyce novel
- 10 'If I lived three miles away the obstacles would've been lower' - Councillor calls for IVF to be reinstated in Cambs
The expansion at Johnson Matthey, already the town's largest employer, is expected to create 86 new jobs and the company will contribute £40,000 towards improved bus stops, a new pedestrian crossing in York Way, and improved cycleway links.
Contrary to your correspondent's claim, this development will be of benefit to the people of Royston and I am glad we were able to approve it.
Councillor RICHARD THAKE
Planning and transport portfolio holder
North Herts District Council
