Lorry park plans approved for the Lion Barn industrial estate in Needham Market, despite objections from the town council

Plans for a fenced HGV lorry park and security building at an industrial estate in Needham Market have been approved.

The town council objected to plans for the 3,265 sqm of land on unit six at the Lion Barn industrial estate, which were submitted by haulage company OpenUltra Felixstowe Ltd in 2021.

When consulted the town council said the lorry park would be contrary to the Needham Market Neighbourhood Plan policy as it would provide minimal new employment opportunity, while having the potential for considerably increasing HGV traffic through the historic core of the town.

A resident, living in Needham Market High Street, also objected stating concerns the proposed facility would lead to a regular flow of trucks passing through Needham Market High Street.

According to documents submitted to Mid Suffolk District Council, there will be a total of 28 HGV parking spaces at the site.

The applicant said the portable building, which will be used for security and driver welfare, would be grey in colour and made from aluminium and steel.

OpenUltra Felixstowe said there would be one full time employee.

Suffolk County Council said vehicle access should be a minimum width of 4.5 metres for a distance of 10 metres, measured from the nearby edge of carriageway, ensuring vehicles can enter and leave the site in a safe manner.

Mid Suffolk District Council said work must be completed within three years after permission was granted on Tuesday.