A FACTORY in Royston is to undergo a programme of changes. Plans submitted by Johnson Matthey to alter its plant in Orchard Road, Royston, look set to be approved when they go before North Herts district council s planning committee today (Thursday). The

A FACTORY in Royston is to undergo a programme of changes.

Plans submitted by Johnson Matthey to alter its plant in Orchard Road, Royston, look set to be approved when they go before North Herts district council's planning committee on Thursday.

The firm want to be build a new canopy measuring 42m by 10m, and change the access in and out of the site.

One resident of Orchard Way has opposed the plans, citing the noise which would be caused by construction work and the interference with television reception which has occurred since Johnson Matthey completed their last scheme of building work in the area.

However, the district council's planning control manager Mary Caldwell has recommended that councillors approve the plans, as she believes the revised access proposals will reduce the amount of noise and general disturbance for residents.

In a report she said: "I am satisfied that this application presents an opportunity to improve the situation for those living nearby.

"It offers advantages to Johnson Matthey and the residents, as it would reduce noise associated with reversing vehicles and screen any noise associated with loading and unloading currently occurring under an open canopy," she said.