PROTESTERS fighting to stop a service station being built on the M1 near Redbourn have received a boost from MP Peter Lilley.

Mr Lilley, whose Hitchin and Harpenden constituency includes Redbourn, has called for the inspector carrying out a public inquiry to recommend the scheme is rejected by John Prescott, Secretary of State for Transport, Environment and the Regions.

He said: "I call on the inspector to recommend the Secretary of State to reject it unequivocally so that it would be clear to all developers that no modified application here or anywhere nearby would stand an earthly chance of approval.

"We want this idea killed stone dead. The case for rejection is overwhelming. First, the site is in the Green Belt, which exists to prevent such developments.

"Second, it is too close to both the nearest existing service stations, which are less than the minimum 15 miles away.

"Third, it would add to traffic hazards on one of the busiest stretches of motorway in the world, which is why the last transport minister ordered it to be rejected. Finally, my constituents are overwhelmingly opposed to it."

Mr Lilley plans to speak against the plans at the public inquiry on Friday morning. He has also written to Sally Yates, leader of Redbourn Against This Motorway Service Area (Rams), lending his support.

His letter says: "I have always upheld the sanctity of the Green Belt in my constituency and believe it wholly inappropriate to build a service station on Green Belt land.

"If this planning appeal is allowed, it would add to the road safety hazards on an extremely busy stretch of the motorway.

"In addition, it would also have an adverse effect on the Highways Agency's plans to widen this part of the M1."

The public inquiry into the plans is continuing at St Albans District Council and is scheduled to last for at least another 15 days.

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