Decision on plans for fish factory pushed back

It is hoped the proposed site will preserve existing jobs and boost Lydney's economy

A decision on plans for a fish factory, eel farm, restaurant and visitor centre in Gloucestershire have been pushed back.

Severn and Wye Smokery Ltd wants permission from Forest of Dean District Council to redevelop the Pine End Works site near Lydney Harbour.

The plans, which include an energy centre, staff accommodation and two water treatment lagoons, were due to be debated by the development management committee earlier.

However, the single agenda item was pulled and the meeting cancelled due to the submission of late material.

The site is very close to Lydney Harbour

According to the council, they did not have time to consider a late entry in time for it to be presented at the meeting, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The new material includes a solicitor's letter from one local resident raising serious concerns over omissions and irregularities in the advice given to the committee.

There was also an email from a local councillor questioning comments from the Environment Agency (EA) and raising concerns over impacts on the eel population in the Severn Estuary.

Planning officers had recommended approving the scheme, which includes three three-bed homes, eight one bed flats, four two bed apartments and 18 shared units for seasonal staff.

The plans also include pedestrian, cycle and vehicle access onto Harbour Road along with a network of internal routes.

And the scheme includes parking for staff, visitors and heavy good vehicles and two water treatment lagoons.

Severn and Wye Smokery employs 240 staff across several premises in Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, and Lincolnshire.

Five people have written in support of the plans while 13 objections have been lodged against the scheme.

The company says it wants to diversify the business and make it more resilient by building the eel farm, for both human consumption and conservation, and preparing more smoked meats and cheeses, which will need separate premises but could remain at Chaxhill.