New service station in Brome set for approval despite objections
A new service station with ‘abundant benefits’ is set for approval near a market town despite local objections.
The plans were initially submitted to Mid Suffolk Council by R H Developments in 2022 for a new service station adjacent to the A140 Ipswich Road, in Brome.
The application is now back on the council’s table and is due to be discussed by members of the planning committee next Wednesday.
If approved, the plans would see a new petrol station and electric charging facility built on a portion of underdeveloped grassland in the north-west corner of the Eye Airfield site.
The development, which would be built in four phases, would also include a roadside restaurant with a drive-through, 24 business starter units, and a lorry parking facility and rest area.
When the application was first discussed two years ago, councillors’ decision was of ‘minded to approve’ meaning planning approval would be subject to more information.
At the time councillors also discussed several concerns raised by objecting residents — 20 in total to date — who raised concerns ranging from anti-social behaviour, negative impact on local businesses, loss of amenity and the development not being in the right location.
A resident representation in support of the planning application was also received arguing the development would reduce HGVs in lay-bys overnight, and that the extra food outlets would benefit the local community.
Since then, the developer has decided to move the lorry park further away from the nearest homes to address amenity issues and has submitted the information requested by the council.
A planning statement submitted on behalf of the applicant also raised its ‘abundant benefits’, particularly in the face of rural areas often being disadvantaged economically.
It read: “Relative isolation from markets, insufficient local demand and a lack of facilities and services can all restrict the growth potential of the local economy in rural areas.
“The proposal would provide a combination of uses which would all contribute to the local area in their own right.
“The location situated along a key transport corridor which serves the district regionally requires facilities which enable rural prosperity.
“The proposal would enable sustainable movement and would assist in the retention of rural business.”
The plans are recommended for approval by officers, subject to conditions — if approved, another application will be submitted within three years to nail down appearance, access, landscaping, layout, and scale details.
