A PLANNING committee will decide whether a multi-million development proposed by a major industrial supplier can go ahead.

Thomas Graham & Sons Ltd wants to create a new premises on land next to the A595 and the St Thomas Cross Roundabout in Egremont.

Cumberland Council’s planning committee will visit the proposed site today (Monday) before making a decision on the plans at a meeting on Wednesday.

Thomas Graham, which recently celebrated its 125th anniversary, is currently based at the Bridge End Industrial Estate in Egremont.

The new three-story building, would form a shop, warehouse and offices, along with new vehicle access, car parking and yard areas.

Smaller, individual commercial units will also be created which will allow letting to other businesses within the local and wider area.

The lower ground floor of the main building will accommodate four units which are to be used as storage for the business.

The ground floor will incorporate a warehouse, pallet store, paint store, toilets, welding hire and power tool repair, and an area to be used as an ancillary trade counter.

The first floor will be used as a storage area, plant room, offices, meeting rooms, and staff facilities including toilets, showers, canteen and gym.

Access to the site will be via an industrial standard priority junction which has been designed to accommodate HGVs.

Egremont Town Council has welcomed the application.

A total of seven letters of objection have been submitted by members of the public. These have raised concerns over noise and air pollution, drainage and the impact of increased traffic on nearby properties.

A report prepared for the planning panel has concluded that the proposed development will not result in an unacceptable impact on highway safety or residential amenity.

Councillors are recommended to approve the application, subject to a number of conditions.