Planners to discuss proposed agricultural machinery assembly factory and research and training facility at Holbeach Drove
A proposed agricultural machinery assembly factory and research and training facility will discover whether it gets the green light from planners this week.
G. Sly Holdings hope to build the site at Holbeach Drove, which would include buildings up to 8m in height and a display area for products, likened to a car showroom.
Accommodation and solar panels are also included in plans.
South Holland District Council’s planning committee will discuss the plans on Wednesday (May 12).
“The applicant seeks planning permission for the erection of an agricultural machinery assembly facility, research and training facility, ground mounted solar array and associated infrastructure,” the planning officer’s report stated.
The development includes an assembly building which incorporates offices and staff facilities, parking and landscaping as well as ground mounted solar panels.
A research centre for sustainable and conservation-oriented agricultural practices are also part of the plans, along with accommodation for visitors.
“The applicant states that courses would be provided and this would involve the need for onsite accommodation,” the report added.
The report continued: “The main assembly building would stand approximately 8m in height, this is required due to the type of equipment that is stored inside the facility.
“It would also allow for the use of overhead cranes within the building.
“The research and development centre would comprise a display area (similar to a car showroom) for the positioning of vehicles assembled on site.
“The other part of the building would contain welfare facilities and offices at ground, with residential accommodation at first floor.”
An agro-forestry area is shown on the wider plan where assembled machinery is tested in real time conditions.
Opposition to the plans for land off Holbeach Drove Gate has come from the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust who have requested a holding objection remain sin place as they are ‘not satisfied that all of our previous concerns have been addressed.’
SHDC officers have recommended the plans be passed.