AN established forestry business in Gargrave has been told it can go ahead with an extension to a log storage building despite planning committee members’ concerns the landscaping element did not go far enough.

Members were told at Tuesdays district council planning meeting that Anchor Croft Farm was seeking to built a timber clad building measuring 21.5 metres by 25 metres, with a ridge height of 9.4 metres.

The building is used for the storage of seasoned logs and a timber processing machine.

The application had been recommended for approval.

Ward representative Cllr Simon Myers said the village wished the developer well, but were concerned the approach tot he village looked increasingly like an industrial estate.

“It is not a NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) village and is not against development but anxious to protect the peaceful rural environment.”

Gargrave Parish Council had objected to the application stating the proposed building represented a significant expansion of operations.

They said residents of Marton Road has also complained about noise from machinery and smoke from the kiln.

Councillor Chris Rose said she was happy with the appearance of the current building.

“It doesn’t look too gruesome.,” she said.

Some of the planning committee felt there was not an adequate amount of screening and landscaping to shield the view of the extended building from walkers or people using the canal.

Planning committee chairman Cllr Alan Sutcliffe suggested the developer plant a wood.

“He does own the land. I don’t think a single row of trees will be adequate screening,” said Cllr Sutcliffe.

Planning officer Mark Moore said condition three covered landscaping in that a method statement was to be submitted within one month of commencement of the extension and approved by the planning authority.

Two letters of representation had been received. The points raised stated the ‘expansion has the character of an industrial, rather than agricultural or forestry business’.

Another said there was noise pollution at present and this would increase with expansion, while concerns were raised for the impact of the visual amenity for users of the canal and towpath.

Members voted to accept the application and suggested screening details be discussed with officers and ward rep.