Dr Luke Evans and Alberto Costa, the MPs for Bosworth and South Leicestershire, respectively, have urged constituents and organisations to register as an Interested Party and share their thoughts on the proposed Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange (NRFI).
Until June 23rd, residents and organisations can register as an Interested Party so that they may take part in the Examination Stage and share their thoughts on the Hinckley NRFI proposals.
Those who register as an Interested Party can share comments on what they consider to be the main issues and impacts of the proposals, as well as details of anything which may affect day-to-day life.
After registering as an Interested Party, residents and businesses will be able to submit further comments during the Examination Stage of the application, which can take up to six months to be completed.
The neighbouring MPs are opposed to the Hinckley NRFI and, earlier this year, met with Rail Minister Huw Merriman to discuss national policy around the placement of Rail Freight Interchanges as there are “several already built within 40 miles of this proposal.”
Dr Luke Evans, Member of Parliament for Bosworth, said “This has been, and will continue to be, a long process. But this step is critical. For many people in our area who care deeply about our community and our environment. This is their chance to share their strong feelings towards the Hinckley NRFI proposals.
“It’s imperative that constituents and organisations take the time to read the documents provided on the Planning Inspectorate website and share their thoughts on which parts of the proposals will impact their daily lives and our precious greenspace.
“I’m conscious this may feel like Groundhog Day to residents who took part in the – at times, very testing – public consultation held by the developer, Tritax Symmetry, last year.
“Any comments you provide as an Interested Party go straight to the Planning Inspectorate. So if you have an opinion, this is how to make it count!
“The inspectorate considers the proposals and makes a recommendation based on evidence gathered… a critical step in ensuring our thoughts are considered.”
Alberto Costa, Member of Parliament for South Leicestershire, said “With the application for the Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange (NRFI) now entering the pre-examination phase, I would really encourage all my constituents across South Leicestershire to please make their representations to the Planning Inspectorate.
“This is a valuable opportunity for residents to engage in the planning process, to submit their comments and to have their voices heard.
“My office will also soon be making further representations to the Planning Inspectorate, and as ever, I will continue working closely with my constituency neighbour Dr Luke Evans MP in standing up for our constituents against this unwanted and unnecessary development”.
