Joy as Daw Mill plans unanimously rejected

APPLAUSE echoed through North Warwickshire Borough Council's civic chamber as planning chiefs unanimously refused proposals to develop the Daw Mill colliery site.

Members of the planning and development board witnessed the highest ever turn out to a public meeting in the council's history on Tuesday, November 3.

Councillors had concerns that the development would not create enough jobs, would encroach on green belt land and would increase traffic levels on the rural road network.

Cllr Adam Farrell, who represents Coleshill North on the borough council, said: "It was a great decision and the fact that it was unanimous shows the feeling this application has across the chamber.

"We have had more residents here tonight than we have ever had at any council meeting.

"This had a profound effect on the decision as without them, it may have been different.

"We must now find technical planning issues for refusal and ensure we get the same public support to make our case even stronger, should it go to appeal."

Developers Harworth Estates had submitted proposals to turn the colliery site into a rail hub and business park.

The plans had been modified and resubmitted twice.

As well as refusing the application, members also included a condition to write to Warwickshire County Council proposing they enforce a restoration obligation to turn the green belt land of the site back to countryside.

Members of the Leys and Whitacre Residents Action Group (LAWRAG), who opposed the plans put forward, filled the council chamber and members also listened outside under gazebo tents.

Before the meeting, action group members also carried placards and banners which read: "Get Daw Mill Green", to show their support.

Ross Jones, member of LAWRAG, said: "This is a sweet victory.

"We now hope that the restoration obligation is enforced by the county council without delay.

"It was very encouraging to see the record turnout of the public and it shows what this application means to residents.

"The councillors who spoke for us were brilliant and brought the chamber to its feet.

"We are delighted with the decision."

During the meeting, Harworth Estates stated they would appeal should the application be refused.

Cllr Joan Lea, chairman of the planning committee, said: "The landscape of North Warwickshire is beautiful and the reason for this is because of the work the miners did underground.

"We have to balance jobs and economy with emotions and protecting the countryside.

"Here we have the opportunity to return something to its natural environment.

"To have the green space would be the best way of honouring the work of the miners."