The Bowd is ‘preffered’ site for Sidmouth recycling centre

A NEW �2million recycling centre for Sidmouth should be sited at The Bowd, civic leaders have urged.

Just one vote split town councillors’ opinions between the site and an alternative in Core Hill Lane, Higher Woolbrook, on Monday.

Councillors narrowly resolved to tell their county counterparts the proposed state-of-the-art hub should go in a field less than a mile from the town’s current Woods Farm facility off the B3177.

It was suggested both areas at The Bowd and Core Hill Lane could also be utilised to house a new industrial estate in the future.

A third site earmarked by Devon County Council (DCC) in Two Bridges Road, Sidford, was branded a “non-starter.”

“The Bowd is by far the best...there is enough room there for an industrial estate as well,” said Councillor Mary Jolly.

“There were clear objections to the two alternative sites to The Bowd,” added Cllr Ian McKenzie Edwards.

Cllr Graham Liverton wanted to see the recycling centre off the A3052 in Core Hill Lane, along with a light industrial estate and a bus depot. He said: “Let’s do it one hit and look to the future,” adding one AONB should be targeted for the developments, not several.

“Looking ahead in 20 years time I suggest all the land by the side of the A3052 will be developed in one way or another- it’s our gateway to development,” said Cllr John Dyson.

Cllr Ann Liverton warned access to premises on the A3052 was “lethal” as she favoured The Bowd site over its Core Hill Lane competitor.

Cllr Tony Reed said the facility will also serve Ottery, Tipton and Newton Poppleford residents and added: “Strategically, The Bowd has a lot going for it.”

Councillors resolved to recommend The Bowd as their preferred site by eight votes to seven. A bid to back Core Hill Lane was defeated by the same margin.

In September, 92per cent of comments submitted at a public consultation event backed The Bowd. DCC will decide where the recycling centre is sited.