Gloucestershire County Council has rejected Allstone’s application to permanently continue operations at its Myers Road stone crushing site in Gloucester, citing serious concerns over air pollution and its impact on local residents’ health.
Allstone sought retrospective permission to maintain and expand its aggregate production activities on the site, which includes a processing and wash plant, two weighbridges, office space, and plans for additional aggregate storage bays and engineering works to improve access.
Despite the firm’s efforts, council planning officers recommended refusal, arguing that the scheme negatively affects the visual landscape, local transport, and resident amenity. They also flagged the cumulative environmental impact as a significant issue. The concerns stem from numerous complaints by residents who report heavy dust pollution so severe they cannot open their windows.
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At the planning meeting, objectors described the noise, traffic, and dust as ongoing daily challenges. One resident questioned Allstone’s claims that no alternative sites are available, expressing skepticism about the company’s compliance with conditions and doubts that any noise or dust mitigation plan would be adequate.
Allstone’s CEO, Simon Ford, urged the council to delay their decision, indicating the company’s willingness to address outstanding concerns over noise, traffic, and air quality. He highlighted the firm’s role as a major local employer, supporting over 200 people.
However, local councillors voiced strong opposition. Councillor Anne Radley recounted decades of resident complaints about dust, noise, and traffic. She shared heartfelt stories from families experiencing new breathing difficulties linked to the site’s pollution. Councillor Jeremy Hilton also criticized the site’s location, noting it is surrounded by housing and has operated non-compliantly for years. Hilton insisted the company should restore the land once its permissions expire and suggested there are more suitable locations elsewhere in Gloucestershire.
In a unanimous vote, councillors rejected Allstone’s application, prioritizing community health and environmental preservation over industrial expansion.