A CONTROVERSIAL application to build a new asphalt plant on the outskirts of York has been recommended for approval.

Durham-based company Tynedale Roadstone is proposing to build the plant off the A59 at Hessay but residents say it will have a detrimental impact on traffic and greenbelt land.

The application has received more than 300 objections and concerned residents formed an action group AVOID - A59 Villagers Oppose Inappropriate Development - to fight the application.

Despite the opposition, a Council of York City case officer has recommended the plans for approval and a decision is expected to be made by the planning committee on Thursday.

Steve Mills of AVOID said the design submitted by Tynedale Roadstone is “totally inadequate” for a number of reasons, particularly where traffic and access is concerned.

He said: “Our transport consultants have confirmed that any widening of the junction would require extensive ground works and would necessitate the removal of drainage ditches.

“Without removing hedgerows and impacting farmland there would be no room for an adequate pavement.”

Mr Mills said that HGVs emerging from the site at New Road would conflict with traffic on the busy A59, adding that the lorries would be unable to pass each other at any point between the A59 and the industrial estate entrance without mounting the pavement.

A request made by Tynedale Roadstone to the land owner to acquire a four metre strip of land to widen the majority of New Road was rejected.

Mr Mills said: “It spells danger for motorists, pedestrians and school children at every turn.”

Tynedale Roadstone, part of the MGL Group, already operates plants in Barton near Darlington, and Newcastle.

A spokesperson for their planning agent, Act Projects, has previously stated that they understand objectors’ concerns and points raised have been acknowledged and work has been undertaken to try and address them.