New jobs at Stourbridge recycling centre if expansion is approved

Pegasus is looking to get permanent planning permission from Dudley Council to remain at Bott Lane in Lye, where it has a temporary agreement in place until August.

The firm is also looking to gain retrospective approval for a new washing facility for the aggregate it recycles.

It is estimated the expansion would create between 30 and 50 new jobs to add to the 80 employees on site.

The plans have prompted strong objections from nearby residents who said they suffer from issues including dust and noise pollution, traffic issues and the plant working out of hours.

But letters of support have also been submitted – including some from employees – who have backed the proposals as creating jobs and supporting a local business.

Officers are recommending approval is granted to the scheme at a Development Control Committee meeting on June 2.

One resident said: “This is not a good idea! I thought we were short of housing?

“Build houses there then – like the land was earmarked for. Aggregate businesses should not be in residential areas. Too much dust and too noisy – Dudley council do your job!”

Councillor Pete Lowe said: “I have been contacted by a significant number of local residents requesting that I voice my opposition to this application.

“The council will be aware of numerous reported issues by constituents around noise, dust and the working hours previously, early morning noises and late evening.

“Residents that I have safely spoken too have continued to raise concerns and are not confident of these issues being appropriately addressed as previous issues have not been resolved.”

In the application, agents Emery Planning said: “The allocation of our client’s site for employment / waste recycling use would provide future security to an existing and well-established local business and to help ensure an adequate supply of employment land and waste management facilities across the Black Country region.”

One of the supporters said: “Having worked for Pegasus, I have seen this company grow from strength to strength.

“Throughout Covid-19, Pegasus hasn’t furloughed anyone and has in fact

continued to employ locally. I personally think this business is key to employment levels in Lye.

“I am therefore fully behind this proposal as I can only see this growth benefiting the local community.

“I personally think that these objectors overlook the other businesses this companies supports including utilities for the area as well as highways.

“I hope this is passed to ensure that the local businesses will continue to have the trade that comes with a large employer locally.”