Drinkfield Marsh is the subject of a number of permissions dating back to the 1960's for various forms of industrial development including tipping.

About 5 years ago the owner of the site approached the council seeking to operate a waste transfer station there. It was explained to the owner that no permission existed and that if they wished to proceed planning permission would be required. In addition to this the site would have to be registered for a licence with the Environment Agency, and consequently, no development took place.

Within the last few weeks the council has been approached by a person wishing to implement a planning permission dating back to the late 1960's which related to the levelling of the site to accommodate industrial development. A further application would be required to permit any building on the site. However, there is some evidence that a permission to level the site may exist. This person has agreed to supply the Council with a plan to enable them to agree the levels throughout the site.

Other related issues at the site involve the protection of wildlife in and adjacent to the local pond and nature reserve, and the Council has contacted the Polices’ Wildlife Protection Unit to make an assessment. Who have visited the site and consider that there is no evidence to substantiate that there has been any damage to wildlife or any other protected species which would result in a criminal offence.

Finally the developer is maintaining that he is operating under an Environment Agency exemption licence to undertake the work and they are currently investigating this issue.

As you will appreciate the matter is rather complex however, the Council is satisfied that ‘in planning terms’ the matter does not, at this stage, justify any enforcement action. Although the Council are monitoring the situation and are in contact with the Environment Agency with regards to their position in terms of their enforcement regarding the Environment Agency licence.