The Planning Inspectorate has accepted the application for the Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange, despite serious concerns raised by Blaby District Council.

The application, from Tritax Symmetry, was initially submitted in February before being withdrawn for further work then resubmitted to the Planning Inspectorate on 17 March. The Council submitted an Adequacy of Consultation Representation for both the first and second submissions. This commented on whether Tritax had complied with the relevant legislation and on its approach to the consultation process.

The Council raised major issues with the consultation, saying it had not been adequate. It said there were failures to provide accurate detail and mitigation on impacts on highways and the landscape, as well as the extra barrier down time at Narborough Level Crossing in terms of its effects on both traffic congestion and air quality for residents.

However, the Planning Inspectorate decided to accept the application and will now begin assessing the plans, with the project moving into the pre-examination phase. During the next few months stakeholders, including the public, will be asked for their views. A six-month long examination phase will follow, starting in the latter half of this year.

While Blaby District Council will comment on the application it cannot make the final decision – the scheme is of such scale and national importance it will be determined by the Secretary of State for Transport.