'Not compatible': Residents object to plans for 93-container storage site

Plans for a 24-hour self-storage facility made up of 93 shipping containers near Wakefield homes have sparked concerns from residents over traffic, noise and the impact on the character of the area.

Panda Storage Ltd has submitted a planning application to change the use of land off Flanshaw Way and Flanshaw Field Drive for a self-storage site including the containers, four parking spaces and landscaping.

The site is described in planning documents as a former car park and hardstanding area within the Flanshaw Way industrial estate.

The applicant said the proposal would bring a long-vacant brownfield site back into use and provide storage for local businesses including tradespeople, contractors and small companies.

It would operate around the clock, with customers accessing units through an electric gate using keypad or app control.

Its facility would be remotely managed, with CCTV covering the entrance and container rows.

But residents living nearby have objected to the scheme, arguing that a large commercial storage site is not appropriate next to homes.

One objection submitted to Wakefield Council said: “The proposed development is inappropriate for this location and would have a significant adverse impact on the character of the residential estate and the amenity of the people who live here.”

Concerns have also been raised about the proposed 24-hour operation.

A resident said it was “not compatible with a residential estate immediately opposite”.

Other objections looked at possible increase in vehicle coming and going, the limited parking and fears that the development could affect the appearance of the site.

Supporters of the application say the scheme would improve a currently unused site and provide a useful service for businesses.

One comment backing the proposal said: “I like to see land being put to good use, a nice looking yard professionally managed with a brand new fence, it only enhances the area.”

The applicant’s planning documents argue that the development would have limited impact on neighbour and traffic would mainly consist of occasional vans and private cars.

A submitted noise assessment said that predicted noise levels would be “significantly below the existing ambient noise levels and very low in absolute terms”.