Is Council using illegal weighbridge?

The issue came to light at last Tuesday’s meeting of Coleraine Borough Council’s Planning committee meeting when Planners refused permission for a retrospective application for a roadside lay-by and weighbridge at Ballinteer Road in Coleraine.

Planners refused the application because it would prejudice the safety of road users, cause an increase in heavy goods vehicles on the road which is subject to a weight order limit, would not provide adequate sight lines and because the width of the site was unsatisfactory.

However, Cllr William King said he was “baffled” by the decision.

He said that he understood the weighbridge had already received planning approval as, he claimed, Coleraine Council lorries used the weighbridge every Saturday morning.

He also claimed that Director of Technical Services, Desi Wreath, had contacted the Planners who had assured him that the site had received permission.

“I would be very disappointed if we were using an illegal weighbridge,” said Cllr King.

It was agreed to defer the decision for one month to seek clarification on the matter.