A VEGETABLE processing factory is being forced to demolish two storage buildings erected without permission, get rid of three cold storage units and an earth bund. Doug Clark Produce Limited of Outwell has two months to carry out the after losing an appe

A VEGETABLE processing factory is being forced to demolish two storage buildings erected without permission, get rid of three cold storage units and an earth bund.

Doug Clark Produce Limited of Outwell has two months to carry out the after losing an appeal against an enforcement notice by King's Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council.

Smell and noise from the onion processing and vegetable waste handling has resulted in numerous complaints from nearby residents.

Sandy Western of The Cottons said she was delighted with the outcome. She said: "The smell has been horrendous and it is much worse in the summer when it is hot. When you have washing hanging out it takes on the smell and has to be washed again. I hope the council puts its foot down and makes sure this is carried out."

The company, of Basin Road, pleaded guilty to four breaches of an Odour Abatement Notice late last year.

The inspector said: "Complaints are still being lodged with the council concerning odour which arises from the onion processing, vegetable waste handling and waste seepage into the ground and nearby dykes.

"Noise has also been a serious problem and local residents continue to make complaints. The noise originates from a variety of sources but in particular I was pointed to:

* the operation of fork lifts trucks

* lorries with refrigerated units running

* horns or beepers warning of reversing movements

* noise from external machinery

* open shutter doors allowing the escape of noise

* engine noises from despatch or delivery vehicles

* unanswered telephones ringing outside in the yard."

He added that the environmental impact had eroded the quality of life of residents and it would be wrong to grant planning permission for something which would intensify industrial activities on the site.

After learning that the company intends to relocate in 2009, the inspector said he thought the company would not want to comply with conditions which needed serious financial commitment.