Fears over 'noxious fumes' leads to plans for vehicle repair shop at former factory site being thrown out

Applicant Cosmin Croitoru has had retrospective planning permission refused for the former industrial unit on Lock Lane in Thorne.

The plans also include conditions and remodifications on spray paint facilities and space for an office.

Thorne councillor and chair of the planning committee, Susan Durant, requested the application came before councillors for a number of reasons.

Coun Durant said works are ‘already taking place’ with an increased noise and ‘noxious smells’ from paint spraying.

Concerns were also raised around the amount of vehicles and inconsiderate parking along with ‘inappropriate activity’ within a residential area ‘creating an eyesore’.

Thorne & Moorends councillors Mark Houlbrook and Joe Blackham addressed councillors at the meeting and spoke in opposition.

DMBC planning officers recommended the application should be granted provided conditions were met.

POLITICS: SCR Mayor Dan Jarvis: No 'magic wand' to fix problems with South Yorkshire bus services

But Coun Houlbrook said: “This causes air pollution from paint fumes and is just 16 metres from a bedroom window and this has come without an air quality assessment.

“The lack of one shows a complete disregard for the health and wellbeing of residents.

“Those bedrooms could contain an elderly person, a small baby or a child - just imagine.

“If members refuse the application, an immediate stop notice is now justified due to the ongoing noise and pollution issues which are occurring within breathing distance of family homes.”

Coun Blackham added: "The fumes, the toxic chemicals that come out of the flue, I've been on Lock Lane and I've stood there while spraying is taking place and you are eating it.

"It's totally dependent on what way the wind is blowing but it is not a nice experience."

No one requested to speak on behalf of the applicant.

Councillors on the planning committee all voted against the proposals.