Dust drama at Barry Docks! Plans to expand the wood-processing site at Barry Docks have been put on pause after locals claimed it was leaving cars and streets covered in dust. The Vale of Glamorgan Council’s planning committee decided against turning land off Wimborne Road into an expanded wood-processing facility.
South West Wood Products Ltd wanted to step up operations, aiming to process more waste wood on-site. Yet, residents, supported by local councillor Helen Payne, raised concerns about dust residue they say has been coming from the facility. The recent dry weather hasn’t helped, making the dust issue more visible.
Council planners considered the applicants’ dust management plan reasonable, but questions remain. Senior planning officer Ian Robinson admitted it’s tough to pinpoint the exact dust source but hinted it looked like wood fibres from the site.
Community members see the potential in wood recycling but worry about the location’s impact on nearby homes. Councillor Nic Hodges, although supportive of recycling efforts, voiced concerns due to the site’s proximity to housing and its history as a former coal export hub, which also came with dust challenges.
The planning committee turned down the proposal with a nine-to-five vote, diverging from the planning officers’ advice to approve. The application is now deferred until further discussions can solidify the council’s stance.
What are your thoughts? Is there a way to achieve a balance between sustainable recycling and local community concerns? Keep the conversation going! 🌳💬 #BarryDocks #CommunityMatters #RecyclingChallenges