Local MPs Marcus Jones and Craig Tracey have asked the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Greg Clark to ‘recover’ the Daw Mill colliery planning appeal that has been submitted by Harworth Estates.
The local MPs, who both represent part of the site, have been contacted by residents expressing fears over the possible implications of the proposed development.
They have in turn raised a number of concerns with the Government Minister over the planning appeal, made to the independent Planning inspectorate, following the decision of North Warwickshire Borough Council to refuse the original planning application.
The local representatives are concerned that this is a complex planning matter which tests a number of national planning principles and have therefore made their request to ensure that the issue is considered at the highest level.
If the ‘call in’ is successful it could see the final decision over the appeal being made by the Secretary of State rather than the inspectorate.
Marcus, who represents Nuneaton, Arley and Hartshill said, “This is a decision is of fundamental importance to local people, and it’s one which must be considered at the highest level to ensure that all of the salient concerns are looked at in the context of the local decision made by North Warwickshire Borough Council.
North Warwickshire MP Craig Tracey explained:
“North Warwickshire Borough Council have already rejected the proposals and we know it is also unpopular among the vast majority of local residents. The Daw Mill site is located within the green belt and is subject to a restoration condition. This is a very important decision to make on appeal and we believe the Secretary of State should look at this matter himself.”