CONTROVERSIAL plans to expand a business park has been given the go-ahead after an appeal against a council's decision.

The appeal had been made in relation to a bid to build 13 business and industrial units, an office block and a cafe in Beckingham Business Park.

These new units would be in the southern part of the park in Tolleshunt Major.

Beckingham Business Park Development Limited's expansion plans were refused in December 2020 after they sparked objections.

Read more >>> Appeal made for controversial bid to build 13 new units in business park

A total of 35 objections had been made including Tolleshunt Major, Little Totham Parish and Tolleshunt D’Arcy parish councils.

One resident who objected to the appeal said: "There is more than enough traffic at present going through Little Totham and Tolleshunt Major.

"There are many old properties in the villages along the roadside and additional traffic is going to cause a lot of stress to residents."

Maldon District Council refused the initial application as it said the proposal would result in "demonstrable harm to the character and appearance" of the site and the wider surrounding area.

At the appeal hearing held in early March, the main issues discussed were the effect of the development on the character and appearance of the area as well as its effect on the Little Totham Water Recycling Centre.

Read more >>> Council set to make decision on controversial expansion of Beckingham Business Park

It was decided the effect of the development on the centre is acceptable subject to a condition which prevents occupation of any part of the development before additional capacity at the centre is made available.

The planning inspector concluded the proposal would also not harm the character and appearance of the site or the wider area.

They also took into account issues such as noise and disturbance, inadequate parking, increased traffic and highway safety matters.

However, they found the development would not cause a material increase in noise and disturbance in comparison to the existing situation.

They found the site has "adequate" space for parking.

Therefore, the appeal has been allowed and the plans have been given the green light.

However, the application for full award of costs made by the appellant was refused.