Aldermaston council reviews storage centre plans amid safety concerns over cumulative development near AWE nuclear site
Plans for Storage Centre in Aldermaston Under Review
Concerns about new development in the AWE safety zone have led to a council committee reviewing plans for a storage centre in Aldermaston.
The eastern area planning committee of West Berkshire Council will evaluate the proposed development at Youngs Industrial Estate on Paices Hill. They will consider the development plan policies and relevant material factors to decide whether to approve or refuse the application. Aldermaston councillor Dominic Boeck called for this review.
Concerns from Local Officials
Mr. Boeck is worried about the parish. He believes that more new developments are being approved in the Detailed Emergency Planning Zone (DEPZ) without proper oversight, which may endanger public safety.
Aldermaston Parish Council also opposes the retrospective planning application. They share safety concerns with AWE and the Office for Nuclear Regulation. They worry about the cumulative effects of many small developments in the area.
Statements from AWE
AWE stated, “The potential for a cumulative impact of such schemes over the years could compromise the future operational capability of the AWE in terms of using ionising radiation in its research with implications for national security.”
They added, “This should take precedence in the decision-making process. The application is contrary to policy and so should be refused.”
Emergency Planning Review
However, West Berkshire Council’s emergency planning officer reviewed the emergency plan and stated, “I have now had a chance to review the attached plan and am content with it.”
The emergency plan includes using a portable building as an emergency shelter.
Details of the Application
The application seeks planning permission to regularize an existing storage use and include an ancillary office at Youngs Industrial Estate. The operator is a vacuum excavation company that employs seven people.
The council planning team believes the site meets policy requirements and has recommended approval.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Youngs Industrial Estate, Aldermaston |
| Committee | West Berkshire Council’s eastern area planning committee |
| Concerned Councillor | Dominic Boeck |
| Operator | Vacuum excavation company |
| Employees | 7 |
