West Pinchbeck grower who cannot recruit locally given permission for 4 static caravans
A flower grower has been given planning permission to provide accommodation for seasonal workers.
E M Cole was granted planning permission for three years to use a land in Small Drove Lane, West Pinchbeck, to site four caravans.
James Cole told South Holland District Council's planning committee meeting that his firm provides flowers for multiple retailers and needs seasonal workers.
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Speaking at Wednesday's meeting, Mr Cole said: "We have tried to recruit locally but we can't find local people."
Mr Cole said that his customers are keen for Coles to have their own staff rather than rely on agency workers to help combat modern day slavery.
He said: "The staff we employ will be using local services."
Coun James Avery said that it is very difficult to attract labour to work in horticulture and agriculture.
He also raised concerns about the objections lodged by the Environment Agency on the as the location is in flood zone 3.
Coun Avery said: "I am a little cynical about the EA. I only have to think back to last July when we were discussing a road being built and 1,000 houses on flood zone 3.
"The EA was saying go ahead knock yourself out to 1,000 homes but lets have a little think about four mobile homes.
"I am pleased with the officer's recommendation to approve."
Coun Harry Drury said he could see that Coles was a responsible employer by adhering to the modern day slavery act and their customer requirements for permanent staff.
He said: "I know this isn't a planning consideration but it is really good to hear that local employers are encouraging staff to shop locally as that it is important for our town.
"Four caravans could go unnoticed for a while without planning permission. I can't see any reason not to provide housing for a period for three years."
Coun Christine Laughton was also pleased to hear that application of modern day slavery had been raised.
The application was unanimously approved by the committee.