A14 services asks for 'pragmatism' in safety row

The service station includes a Spar, a Greggs and a Subway

A service station has asked for a "degree of pragmatism" from the local authority that ordered it to close over safety concerns.

Elmswell Services, just off the A14 between Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket in Suffolk, was served with a breach of condition notice last Thursday amid a planning dispute with Mid Suffolk District Council.

It has remained open as Andrew Stringer, the council's cabinet member for heritage, planning and infrastructure, urged it to implement safety measures.

A spokesperson for EG On The Move, which was served the notice, reassured it was "committed to addressing the matters promptly and responsibly".

"We acknowledge the concerns raised regarding Elmswell Service Station and want to assure the public that we are committed to addressing these matters promptly and responsibly," they said.

"At the same time, we kindly request a degree of pragmatism from local stakeholders, given the potential detriment and uncertainty created to local employment.

"EG On The Move are actively working with the local authority, our professional advisers and contractors to resolve the issues raised.

"Our focus remains on ensuring that the highest standards are met and that all concerns are addressed in full compliance with regulations and best practices.

"We value the trust placed in us by the community and stakeholders and will continue to provide updates as the situation progresses."

Andrew Stringer said he feared for drivers attempting to navigate the service station for the first time

The council, which initially refused planning permission for the site before it was granted on appeal, said essential road safety measures were not implemented when the services opened in December.

It said work on the access and exit points – as set out in the Planning Inspectorate's conditions of approval – were not carried out.

Stringer said the council's primary concern was safety and the service station had "jumped the gun" before it was ready.

"Since we've put in the planning contravention notice, I've had several emails from people who continue to have near misses in and around this site," he said.

"It has to be done and we're imploring the site operator, please don't put profit before safety. Carry out the works, please."

The council previously said it was considering all its legal options.

Stringer said the council was "constantly" reaching out to the site.

He added: "If only we had a clear plan from them we could come to a compromise, perhaps, and sort this all out, but we need to get these people to get these safety measures in place."