'Wrong lamppost' query in Corby warehouse row

North Northamptonshire Council says it is now investigating whether the notices for planning were put in the correct place

A council says it will investigate further "alleged issues" with the planning consultation process for a large warehouse.

People living on Hooke Close, Corby, described their outrage after construction work on the warehouse started in their road.

North Northamptonshire Council apologised after residents in Hubble Road - about half a mile away - were wrongly consulted on the plans.

The authority confirmed that the plans were still lawful as notices were displayed nearby - however residents believe they were posted in the wrong place.

Warehouse construction is under way near Hooke Close

The council approved the new warehouse project on the former Weetabix site in September.

Councillor Mark Pengelly, who represents the Labour Lloyd Ward in Corby, branded the council's process as "farcical".

"The people on that estate.. seem to be micromanaging the council," he said.

"We had a photograph from the council sent to us saying there was proof the sign had gone up, but the Columbo's and Miss Marple's who live on that street, realised that it was the wrong lamppost.

"The lamppost that [the council] said [the notices were on] wasn’t there.”

‘Worn out’

Mr Pengelly said there had been a "failure of massive proportions" from both NNC and the developers.

He called on work to be halted and for the planning permission process to start again.

Councillor Jason Smithers, Conservative leader of NNC, said: “We have been made aware of the alleged issues in relation to the placement of the site notice and we are currently investigating the matters that have been raised.

"We are unable to comment further before concluding our investigation.”