Stop megasheds being built & operated 24/7 close to homes and communities

We want the government to include in its revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) that the building of B8 warehouses and the 24/7 operation of such megasheds will not be permitted within 500 metres of residential properties.

Megasheds are typically at least 20m/65ft high (equal to 5 double decker buses). They can increase flood risk and the associated traffic causes huge increases in air, noise, light, vibration, dust and water pollution, plus higher carbon dioxide emissions. They often operate 24/7 giving no respite for local communities who can suffer financial, mental and physical health impacts. Although megasheds have a role to play in UK logistics, we believe they should not be allowed to destroy the lives of local communities.

On 17 August the government published a new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). It is available on gov.uk here https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework

The NPPF includes a new policy (E3: Freight and Logistics) which sets out planning considerations specific to freight and logistics development and associated infrastructure, including access to transport networks, parking provision, and potential impacts on the environment, local residents, and neighbouring uses.

A policy specific to this sector has been introduced because of the physical and locational characteristics of logistics developments, which in some cases will involve particularly large structures, and because of the particular importance of access to suitable transport links for these operations.

The NPPF also includes policies relating to achieving well-designed places, managing flood risk, sustainable transport, securing clean energy and water and pollution, public protection and security.

Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government