Retrospective permission granted for East Sussex skip business

On Wednesday (September 18), East Sussex County Council’s planning committee approved a change of use application from Sussex Mini Skips Ltd, connected to its facility at the Ghyll Road Industrial Estate in Heathfield.

The planning permission means the business may be able to continue its operations from the site, which involves the storage and sorting of non-hazardous waste.

In a report to the committee, county council officers said the application was retrospective as the business has been operating on the site since “early 2023” without the appropriate planning permission. Despite this, the report goes on to note how the business has been monitored for much of its operation and has been doing so without any complaints being raised.

The report also notes how the business is in the process of seeking an environmental permit for its operations. This permit is issued by the Environment Agency and is required by businesses which use, store, treat, recycle, or dispose of waste.

While recommended for approval, the scheme faced objections from Heathfield and Waldron Parish Council, which argued the site was an “inappropriate location” for such an operation due to its proximity to both residential dwellings and an area of ancient woodland.

Concerns had also been raised by a neighbouring business around noise and air pollution.

Some of these concerns were reiterated during the meeting by Heathfield and Mayfield county councillor Anne Cross (Green), although she told the committee she was supportive of the scheme.

Cllr Cross said: “I have obvious concerns about the site … about the ancient woodland, the High Weald and any runoff which might occur … and also the traffic. Ghyll Road is a steep hill, there are humps all the way up it and the thought of rumbling lorries continuing up and down that road is a concern.

“I am, however, reassured by the conditions and feel sure they will be watched over and [officers will] ensure the business keeps to them.”

Ultimately, the committee agreed with the officers’ recommendation to grant planning permission, noting how the business was not considered likely to result in “unacceptable” levels of noise or dust pollution.

For further information see application reference WD/888/CM on the East Sussex County Council planning portal.