I visited Evri after postponing a visit in September due to the Queen’s passing.

I know the EVRI Hoyland facility has caused a number of concerns amongst residents in the local area.

Over the last three years I have met, and exchanged emails, with many residents, including campaign groups, regarding ongoing issues with the development. These have included the loss of green space, the overbearing nature of the development, concerns around increased traffic, road closures and pollution.

I have followed up these concerns and raised issues with both the council and the Government and relayed appropriate responses to residents.

As most residents are aware, the actual planning process which led to the development of Evri’s warehouse was a matter for the local authority and the Government planning inspector who signed off the land for development at Hoyland Common. However, I did raise the issue of how undemocratic the current government’s planning process is and how it is biased towards developers in Parliament in June last year. You can read about this here: https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/opinion/columnists/how-planning-system-has-become-undemocratic-and-biased-towards-developers-stephanie-peacock-3283486

Over the summer I surveyed 1000 homes surrounding the new Evri warehouse, asking for views and concerns from residents ahead of my meeting with them. A range of issues were raised which included dust and air pollution, traffic issues, jobs and job security and environmental issues.

I raised these issues with EVRI when we met, and they are keen to respond to them, and work with the local community.

As you may be aware, Evri have agreed to set up a residents’ forum to meet to discuss ongoing issues. This will be organised by the 3 sitting Councillors in the area who will be arranging regular meetings to ensure that Evri are listening to the issues that matter most to residents.

If you would be interested in joining the residents’ panel, you can email me at stephanie.peacock.mp@parliament.uk and I can put your name forward for consideration.

If you have any other issues you would like to raise with me, please contact me at stephanie.peacock.mp@parliament.uk.