Stop the Asphalt Plant
NEW PETITION NOW AVAILABLE
THE PLANNING APPLICATION HAS BEEN UPDATED ON 19th DECEMBER 2025
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- PLEASE REVIEW & SIGN TO PROTECT OUR COMMUNITY, ENVIRONMENT & PUBLIC HEALTH -
Location: B.P. Mitchell Inert Recycling Centre, Birchall Lane, Cole Green, Welwyn Garden City, SG14 2NR
A Call to Action

Background
Since 2023, B.P. Mitchell have been operating an Asphalt Production Plant on Birchall Lane, Cole Green, despite it never having appeared in any previous Planning Applications.
The plant runs from early morning to late afternoon, producing a constant loud, low‑frequency hum, along with fumes and bitumen odours that affect nearby residents and the local environment.
On 19 December 2025, they have attempted to bolt on the Asphalt Plant by quietly amending the existing Planning Application; a clear attempt to avoid submitting a new, full application that would require neighbour notification and give residents their legal right to comment.
This is a major change to the site’s scale, appearance, operations, and environmental impact, and it directly contradicts the 300+ residents who signed the original petition calling for exactly that: a new, full, transparent planning process.
We again call for Hertfordshire County Council to force a proper, transparent application in which residents are genuinely able to have their voices heard.
What you can do now
Let your voice be heard
1. Sign the new Online Petition, objecting the the Asphalt Plant being included on the BP Mitchell planning application (PL/0112/19)
​2. Write or email Hertfordshire County Council Spatial Planning department to object to the Asphalt Plant: spatialplanning@hertfordshire.gov.uk
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​​​​3. Review and monitor the application for any changes - We will also provide updates on our website (Planning Application PL/0112/19)
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4. Stay informed by bookmarking this website and sending an email to:
info@speakupwgc.com for updates
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5. Write to your local MPs and Local Councillors requesting their help and support
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6. Share this website with neighbours, local groups and social media
“Gradually, since 2023 the noise has become more frequent and has made our lives unbearable.”
“The lingering smell of hot Asphalt and Bitumen is often overpowering.”
“How can this be allowed so close to Children's Schools and Residential areas?”
“ I have been hearing this hum 24/7 for about a year and a half. People calling me crazy or saying I have tinnitus!"
“The potential for Health Risks and Environmental damage must be addressed.”

