Representation by Edmundson Electrical Limited (Edmundson Electrical Limited)
- Date submitted
- 4 November 2022
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
This representation is submitted by Pinsent Masons LLP on behalf of Edmundson Electrical Limited (EEL). EEL is the tenant and occupier of Unit 3, 1 Sheepcotes, Springfield, Chelmsford CM2 5AE. EEL’s distribution service business operates from this site and the access off Sheepcotes is used heavily to facilitate and support operations. EEL objects to certain elements of the A12 Chelmsford to A120 Widening Scheme (the Proposed Development), as promoted by National Highways. EEL has not received any notice or information from National Highways in connection with the Proposed Development. The first time EEL became aware of the proposals was in early November 2022 during discussions with EEL’s landlord, Royal London. The impact of this is that EEL has not had an opportunity to have a say as part of any consultation or engagement, and National Highways has not had regard to any comments EEL may have had about the Proposed Development during the scheme development process. EEL is very concerned about the potential impact of the Proposed Development on its operations at the site off Sheepcotes. Under the draft development consent order, National Highways is seeking temporary possession powers over the access to Unit 3 (plot numbers 1/10f and 1/10g as listed in the Book of Reference and shown on the Land Plans). This access is critically important to EEL. EEL would not be able to operate from this site if National Highways were to take possession of the access, even if that possession was temporary or with any restrictions. EEL would like to explore alternative options with National Highways. In addition, EEL has concerns about the construction traffic on the local roads in connection with the Proposed Development and the impact this has on health and safety in the area and the operation of EEL’s business. Any increased traffic on the roads is likely to cause delays to EEL in operating its distribution business and potentially prevent access to the business by customers, staff and distribution vehicles. EEL currently operates between 6am-10pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 12pm Saturday with approximately 25 lorries, 120 vans, and 38 car vehicle movements per day to and from the premises. This is a significant number, illustrating EEL’s significant distribution service and the importance of the access and surrounding highways. Delays to these movements is likely to have a significant impact on EEL’s operations. EEL would also like to understand more from National Highways about what measures are proposed to ensure that the safety of local road users during the construction period. EEL has not had an opportunity to review the application documentation in any detail and reserves its right to comment further once additional details are provided. EEL is willing to meet with and engage with National Highways and the DCO process as the examination progresses.