Flats could be built in Southdown Industrial Estate

Applicant LaSalle Investment Management have put forward proposals to revamp five units in the Southdown Industrial Estate, in Southdown Road, Harpenden.

The plans for the site are part of Harpenden Town Council’s Harpenden Neighbourhood Plan, which sets out a “vision for development” in the future.

However, one of the policies says: “A change of use to a non-B Class use at this location will not be supported unless it can be demonstrated that the premises are no longer suitable for business use or there is clear evidence that there is no prospect of a new commercial occupier being found”.

Carl Cheevers, town clerk for Harpenden Town Council, has since written the planning department at St Albans City and District Council as he believes there is no evidence that Southdown Industrial Estate is no longer suitable for business use.

He fears that the site is not appropriate for people to live there as they could be disturbed by noise from a nearby train line and workmen operating at unsociable hours, as well as threats to health due to poor air quality.

Mr Cheevers’ letter said: “Throughout the development of the Neighbourhood Plan, Southdown Industrial Estate has been recognised by local people as an important employment location for the Town. It is felt that this must be protected to help ensure that Harpenden retains a small but productive amount of employment floorspace.

“This is a busy industrial estate that includes many noisy operations at unsociable hours. The industrial estate is also adjacent to a busy train line. This noise pollution would have a negative impact on future residents.

“We have concerns regarding the health and wellbeing of future residents. Residents will be living next to industrial units that through their everyday operations create pollution issues.”

St Albans City and District Council and LaSalle Investment Management have been contacted for comment.