Sleaford and North Hykeham MP, Dr Caroline Johnson, concerned Bomber County Gateway Trust's Lancaster bomber tribute will be affected by animal rendering plant application
An MP has expressed concern that a landmark tribute to bomber crews of the second world war could be blighted by a proposal for an animal rendering plant.
The Bomber County Gateway Trust was set-up to create a life-size sculpture of wartime Lancaster bomber in a field by the A46 at Norton Disney that would be seen by thousands of motorists each day.
Stanchions and a supportive base have already been put in place to hold the sculpture, which will look like a Lancaster in flight.
A planning application has been submitted for an animal rendering plant on a field opposite the site.
Sleaford and North Hykeham MP, Doctor Caroline Johnson, who visited the sculpture site recently, fears the plant will detract from the sculpture, with those driving by “greeted by vast industrial buildings” instead.
“Great progress has been made on the foundations and podium for this incredibly poignant structure and I’m grateful to chairman Ken Sadler for all the work he is putting into this important project,” Dr Johnson exclusively told the Advertiser.
“Lincolnshire is the proud home of Bomber Command, who played a pivotal role in the war effort.
“Despite suffering the highest losses of any area during the second world war, they have struggled for recognition, and this is a fitting tribute to our service personnel of the past, present and future.
“This landmark, titled On Freedom’s Wings, will be an exceptional heritage piece when completed and both I and the MP for Newark, Robert Jenrick, have lent our full support to the project.
“I was concerned, however, to learn that On Freedom’s Wings now lies in jeopardy due to an application for an animal rendering factory in an adjacent field.
“Instead of a majestic Lancaster bomber gracing the horizon, those driving into the Gateway to Lincolnshire would be greeted by vast industrial buildings, including a 35-metre chimney and a giant 100 metre shed.
“In addition to its impact on this landmark, I have heard many other reasoned objections to this planning application from constituents, including concerns regarding its impact on odour, traffic and local businesses.
“There is considerable concern that both the facility, and the lorries serving it, will produce an unacceptable level of odour for neighbouring residents, and that this smell could extend over a wider area during windy weather.”
Dr Johnson said that as a paediatrician, she was particularly concerned about the impact the plant would have on children with special educational needs who attend nearby schools; particularly those on the autistic spectrum, because they process sensory inputs differently and could be extremely affected by smell.
“The effect on traffic congestion in the load areas would also be severe,” she said.
“There would be over 230 daily lorries shuttling up and down the A46 between Newark and Witham St Hughs, and facility would directly impact on the operation of many local businesses and services, including Hilt Holt Wood, Newark Showground and the Lost Village music festival.”
“Lincolnshire County Council’s planning committee is due to discuss the application on February 3.
Dr Johnson said: “I would encourage all those who may be affected to make their voices heard by getting in touch with the planning department by January 31.
“For a development of this magnitude it is imperative that the voices of the people whose lives and livelihoods are affected are fully taken into account.”
The Advertiser contacted Lincoln Proteins Ltd, the company behind the rendering plant application, but no one responded to a request for comment.
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