Blackpool haulage company loses planning battle after noise dispute

Councillors threw out a retrospective planning application from the company to use land at Squires Gate Industrial Estate for the storage of up to 67 wagons, a workshop and a concrete mixing plant.

The scheme had been recommended for refusal after more than 40 objections were received mainly from residents of nearby Oakwood Close, but also from Common Edge Road and businesses on Amy Johnson Way.

They complained of air pollution, environmental contamination and the “horrendous noise” of a concrete crusher and other heavy machinery at the site which the contractor moved to in 2019.

Following the decision the company said it was disappointed but wished to work with the council to take things forward.

A spokesperson said: “Naturally, we are disappointed with the council’s decision but given the recommendation of the planners we were not surprised.

“We will take the appropriate time to consider the decision and look at our options. One of the possibilities is to appeal but we will take our time to decide what is best

“Looking ahead we want to work with the council to progress things. We are a Blackpool business, we were founded here and proud of our roots.”

In making their recommendation for refusal, council planners said: “The adverse environmental and social impacts of the proposal are considered to outweigh the economic benefits.”here

Fox Brothers employs around 100 people at the Squires Gate Industrial Estate. The firm was established in 1932 and specialises in the supply and haulage of aggregates, recycled materials, muck-shift, earthworks and civil engineering projects.

It operates from two locations in Blackpool. Its headquarters office is on the Whitehills Business Park. In 2019, Fox moved to new premises at Squires Gate Industrial Estate, to facilitate the larger fleet.

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