PLANNING permission has been granted for a joinery workshop in the garden of a home in Stourport, despite residents’ complaints noisy industrial use is inappropriate for their residential area.

Two sheds have been used for woodwork at 153 Windermere Way for more than 10 years – initially on a hobby-level but subsequently as a business – and the owners sought formal approval of their activities from Wyre Forest District Council planning bosses on Tuesday, September 9.

The application, which requested consent for an already constructed third shed and continued use of the outbuildings for joinery, was passed by nine votes to seven.

Councillors however imposed a number of conditions on their decision, including restricting use of the workshops to the occupant and his family and limiting the working hours.

Paul Blake, owner of a neighbouring property in Windermere Way, who spoke against the application at the planning meeting, said: “We feel this is an industrial encroachment on residential land.

“Extensive buildings now occupy the rear of 153 and have recently – within the last two years – been extended in order to presumably meet the needs of a much larger business.

“The buildings are built of wood, possibly a fire hazard as access is very limited, and would appear to be above what might be deemed as reasonable.

“These sheds were initially used on a fairly low, DIY activity basis with no or very little disturbance.

“It is only the last two years that much more activity on an industrial scale has taken place. Noise is an important issue and it is very obvious when machinery is being used.”

Sam Silcox, representing the applicant, however argued: “The granting of planning permission today will not alter the residential nature or character of the area.

“Noise is kept to a level which is wholly compatible with the residential surrounding and deliveries are considered to be minimal.”

District councillors at the meeting expressed differing views on the proposal. Conservative Stephen Clee said “the man is trying to make a living and I fully support it” but Independent Community and Health Concern councillor Cliff Brewer opposed the application, labelling it “an industrial use in a residential area”.

Speaking after the meeting Mr Blake told The Shuttle he was "very disappointed" with the outcome of the meeting and was exploring possibilities for appealing the decision.