Residents win battle to stop night-time deliveries at major warehouse

A planning appeal by developers wanting to overhaul vehicle movements at a controversial warehouse in Milton Keynes so that lorries could operate 24/7 has been dismissed.

Jersey-based GUPI 6 wanted to vary restrictions at the huge shed in Blakelands, so that HGVs could enter or exit the site outside of the current restricted hours of 7am to 9pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm on weekends.

But in a decision by the Planning Inspectorate it said “the proposed amendment to the operating hours would result in an adverse effect upon the living conditions of the occupiers of neighbouring properties”.

The 59ft high warehouse, which covers 220,900 sq ft has been heavily criticised by local residents and branded a “huge, enormous monstrosity” after planning permission was granted in 2018.

It has stood empty since it was completed.

Campaign group, the Blakelands Residents Association, said the decision was “a huge result".

It said: “We have battled for a long period to ensure this condition remains so we can enjoy our properties without being adversely affected from night time noise.

“This decision shows that residents can win appeals and battle developers, no matter how big they are or how much money they have.”