Tuesday 17 January 2023

CONTROVERSIAL plans for a vertical farming facility on a site in Woodmansey have been given planning approval after a decision was previously deferred last year. The plans, by Key Growing Ltd, include a vertical farm complex to grow micro salads, herbs, soft fruits, bulbs and flowers, together with office buildings and starter units, all served by an existing anaerobic digestion plant. 

The plans, which raised objections from residents concerned about landscaping provision and increased traffic visiting the site, also include an energy management and distribution building, a pond incorporating a wildlife and nature park, internal circulation road, car and lorry parking. The development will extend Woodmansey Business Park, owned by Key Growing, by 40 per cent to 62 acres, and increase the numbers employed at the park from about 450 to 730. 

The application went before East Riding Council’s Planning Committee in December when a decision was deferred for further information. It returned to the committee last week with members voting six-to-four to grant planning permission, subject to conditions.

YOUTH and sports organisations have been invited by East Riding Council to apply for a share of £40,000. Called Positive Activity Grants, they are available in three bands: Band A – £10,000 for a new youth organisation that has never received an award previously; band B – two grants of £5,000 each for new projects from established youth organisations; and band C – 10 grants of £2,000 each for established youth organisations that want to continue to deliver or develop current youth projects. The deadline for applications is January 31. More details here

A £30,000 tractor, stolen from a farm near South Cave, was recovered on Long Lane in Beverley, thanks to a tracker device, police revealed. A man was arrested on suspicion of theft and subsequently released as investigations continue.