Making the planning case for a major logistics hub
The path to planning approval is rarely straightforward. For a proposed 107-acre logistics hub in Northamptonshire, progress depended on clear strategic thinking, collaboration and robust expert evidence. When a competing large-scale scheme went to appeal, Harworth Group plc faced a multi-million-pound decision: stand by or shape the outcome – an outcome that would support its own planning application.
Challenge
With both schemes at risk, Harworth Group faced a difficult decision: watch a competitor set the agenda? Rely on others’ submissions and hope for the best? Intervene and oppose the scheme? Or pursue a strategic route that could benefit both developments? Each option carried significant commercial risk – but we helped Harworth Group take control of their destiny.
When we were approached, the inquiry was already up and running, and the Inspector set very tight deadlines. To pull our statement of case and proof of evidence together against such time pressures took diligence, tenacity and round-the-clock dedication.
Joining forces
Although the appeal wasn’t Harworth’s own, we secured them Rule 6 status, giving our client a formal voice at the inquiry. Rather than fighting the Newlands’ application, we took a measured and constructive stance, arguing that the market demand existed for both sites. By reframing the debate and collaborating, we helped create a unified and credible case.
Outcome
Following a 10-day public inquiry, the Planning Inspector allowed the Newlands’ appeal. Central to this was the supportive evidence that we helped prepare, which the Inspector held was the most convincing evidence at the inquiry as to need. That evidence demonstrated an ‘unmet need’ for logistics space, which was of a scale that also allowed for Harworth’s own proposals. Furthermore, the Inspector agreed with our case that the local plan policies were out of date and shouldn’t restrict sites like Harworth’s, which are well positioned in terms of the strategic road network. It’s now for the Council to determine Harworth’s planning application in the context of the clear findings of the Inspector, which support their scheme.
